Root canal therapy is a vital endodontic procedure aimed at saving teeth that have diseased or inflamed pulp tissue. By removing the infected pulp, the treatment prevents the spread of infection and alleviates pain, preserving the tooth’s structure and functionality.
Root canal therapy involves the careful removal of infected or inflamed pulp tissue from within the tooth. When the inner pulp becomes diseased due to bacteria, it can cause pain, swelling, or abscesses, weakening the surrounding bone.
Through a small opening made in the top of the tooth, the dentist uses specialized tools to clean out the infected pulp and bacteria, reshaping the canal to prepare it for filling. The canal is then sealed with a sterile substance called gutta-percha to prevent future infections. This method not only eliminates pain but also allows the body’s natural healing processes to repair any damage, leading to a restored and healthy tooth.
The root canal procedure typically begins under local anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort throughout the process. Depending on the case’s complexity, multiple appointments may be required to complete the treatment effectively.
Post-treatment, the tooth is often covered with a crown to restore its strength and function. With a success rate as high as 95%, root canal therapy is a reliable solution to preserving natural teeth. Patients may experience some mild soreness post-treatment, particularly if there was a longstanding infection, but this can be managed with prescribed medication and care instructions from the dentist.
Common signs include spontaneous pain or throbbing when biting, increased sensitivity to hot and cold, severe decay, or an injury leading to an abscess in the bone.
With modern techniques and local anesthesia, root canal therapy can be performed painlessly, reducing discomfort both during and after the procedure.
The number of visits depends on the tooth’s complexity and the extent of infection, but typically it can be completed in one to three appointments.
After the root canal, the tooth is usually protected with a crown or filling to restore its form and function, ensuring long-term durability.
Yes, with proper care, including good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last a lifetime.
