Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment, often referred to as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. The procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system, and then filling and sealing the space to prevent further infection.
Procedure Overview
Diagnosis:The dentist first examines the tooth and takes X-rays to determine the extent of damage and infection.
Anesthesia:Local anesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring the patient's comfort during the procedure.
Access:The dentist creates an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
Cleaning and Shaping:Special instruments are used to remove the infected or damaged pulp tissue and to clean and shape the root canal system.
Disinfection:The root canal is irrigated with antimicrobial solutions to kill any remaining bacteria and disinfect the area.
Filling:The cleaned and shaped root canal is filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, to seal the space and prevent re-infection.
Restoration:A temporary or permanent filling is placed in the access opening to seal the tooth temporarily or a crown is placed to restore its strength and appearance permanently.
More information
Is root canal treatment painful?
With modern techniques and anesthesia, most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case, but it typically takes one to two visits to complete.
What are the alternatives to root canal treatment?
The main alternative is tooth extraction, but this should be considered only if saving the tooth is not possible or practical.
Is root canal treatment permanent?
With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
Some Facts
Success Rate: Root canal treatment has a success rate of around 95%.
Pain Relief: RCT alleviates the pain associated with tooth infections and abscesses.