Root canals have gained an undeserved reputation for being painful, but the truth is quite the opposite. In fact, root canal therapy can be a source of relief from pain and toothache. It is important to understand that tooth pain is not caused by root canals; rather, it arises when a root canal is necessary but not performed.

When tooth decay progresses deep into the tooth, it can lead to infections within the tooth pulp. If the decay-causing bacteria infect the pulp, it becomes imperative to remove the infected pulp. Failure to do so can result in the infection spreading to the surrounding tissues, leading to unpleasant conditions such as abscesses.

What Is A Root Canal?

Root canal therapy, also known as endodontics, focuses on the interior of the tooth. Inside each tooth lies a hollow space that houses the tooth pulp, which plays a vital role in detecting heat and cold and maintaining the tooth's vitality. Root canal treatment becomes necessary when the tooth pulp becomes infected or dies.

Recognizing the signs indicating the need for a root canal may include pain, abscesses, and swelling. However, it is important to note that sometimes there may be no obvious symptoms, underscoring the significance of regular dental check-ups. Dentists are trained to identify warning signs that patients may overlook.

Procedure Overview

The root canal therapy procedure begins with the dentist administering local anesthesia to numb the tooth and its surrounding area. To ensure cleanliness and prevent contamination, a rubber dam and a small latex sheet are used to isolate the tooth. Subsequently, a small access cavity is created on the tooth's surface using a drill.

Through the access cavity, the dentist removes the infected or dead pulp and cleans the inside of the tooth using dental files. These files resemble pins but cause no discomfort due to the effects of local anesthesia. Throughout the process, the cavity is periodically flushed with a cleaning solution to eliminate any contaminants.

Expanding the cavity allows ample space for filling material, typically a natural rubbery substance called gutta-percha, to seal the root canal. A temporary filling is placed on top to protect the tooth until the next appointment when the tooth will be permanently sealed. During this interim period, special care and caution are necessary to avoid damaging the temporary filling and risking reinfection.

Post-Treatment Care:

In most cases, a dental crown is required following a root canal procedure to restore the tooth. While fillings may suffice for milder cases, they are not suitable for molars that have undergone a root canal due to the pressure they endure.

In most cases, a dental crown is required following a root canal procedure to restore the tooth. While fillings may suffice for milder cases, they are not suitable for molars that have undergone a root canal due to the pressure they endure.