What Is The Root Canal Process? Article

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What is the Root Canal Process?

A root canal is a restorative dental treatment that is used to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth. The procedure involves removing the nerve and pulp of your tooth, and then cleaning and resealing it.

Author: Sara Goldstein

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If this treatment is not performed when needed, the tissue surrounding your tooth may become infected and a painful abscess may form.

When some people are told that they need a root canal, they associate it with pain. However, the pain caused by your tooth infection will be the most painful part; a root canal is performed to alleviate that pain. Thanks to modern medication, refined endodontic techniques and modern dental technology, the once-feared root canal is no more painful than a routine filling. In fact, treatment is often described as “pain free” by patients.

About Root Canal Treatment

"Root canal" is the term used to describe the natural canal-like cavity within the center of your tooth. This canal leads to your pulp, the soft chamber within your root canal that contains your tooth’s nerves. Because root canal treatment requires your endodontist to access the interior chamber of your tooth, a small access opening must first be created in your tooth enamel. Next, your pulp, along with the decayed tissue, will be removed from your tooth and a special tiny file of nickel titanium material will be used to clean and shape the interior of your root canals.

Once your tooth is cleaned thoroughly, it will be sealed. This may be done the same day, or your dentist may want to wait several days or a week before sealing the tooth. If there is an infection, for example, a medication may be placed inside your tooth to eradicate bacteria. In these cases, a temporary sealant will be placed on your affected tooth to keep food and bacteria from contaminating it while the infection is clearing up. The permanent filling will prevent further decay and bacteria from entering the tooth and will help preserve and protect it indefinitely.

Why Remove the Pulp?

When the nerve tissue or pulp of your tooth becomes damaged, it breaks down and bacteria starts to form and multiply inside your pulp chamber. The bacteria and other decayed debris are likely to cause an infection or a painful abscess. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the end your tooth root, caused by an infection that extends past your root.

Root canal infections can lead to:

• Swelling in your jaw, face, neck and head
• Bone loss around the tip of your root
• Drainage problems, because a hole in the side of your tooth can drain into your gums or through your cheek

Aside from decay, your pulp can become damaged because of multiple procedures on that tooth, failed fillings and cracks, or any kind of trauma to your mouth.

When a Root Canal May Be Necessary

In some cases, you may not experience any signs that a root canal is needed. Other times, you may experience severe pain. Several indications that you might need a root canal include:

• Severe pain when you chew or apply pressure to that tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures once the substance is removed from your mouth
• A darkening of that tooth
• A persistent or recurring “pimple” on your gums

If you believe you may need a root canal and you live in the Rochester, Canandaigua, Fairport, Pittsford or Finger Lakes New York area, please visit the website of endodontist Dr. John Lepore at Advanced Endodontic Solutions.

About Author

Advanced Endodontic Solutions provides endodontic dentistry procedures for patients in the Rochester, Fairport and Canandaigua areas of New York. Dr. John W. Lepore is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics, and has been in practice for over sixteen years. Specializing in root canal treatment and other endodontic procedures, Advanced Endodontic Solutions has offices in Fairport and Canandaigua. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

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What is the Root Canal Process?