hat is a Root Canal Procedure?

A root canal is a procedure that takes place when an individual’s pulp has become severely infected. The pulp, which is made up of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, is located directed beneath the enamel and dentin. It is important for the pulp to remain in good health because it is responsible for allowing the root to develop.

There are several common reasons an infection in the pulp may occur, but the most common is that a tooth has become cracked or a cavity has been left untreated for so long that the infection has finally spread and begun to directly impact the pulp.

Scheduling a root canal appointment is your next step towards maintaining and improving your overall oral health.

What Steps Are Involved in Having a Root Canal Performed?

The steps involved in having a root canal performed may vary slightly depending upon the severity of your case, but most root canal procedures will follow the same general process.

• Your dentist will perform an examination to see if a root canal is needed.
• If they determine you do need a root canal, your dentist will administer local anesthetic to reduce your anxiety and any pain associated with the impending procedure.
• Next, your dentist will make a very small opening through the tooth or crown.
  After this opening has been made, the dentist will begin removing the infected pulp, after which they will clean the canals and chamber and then shape and disinfect the area in preparation for a filling.
• If your case is more severe due to the level of infection or the type of tooth that needs to be addressed, your dentist may schedule multiple visits. If this is the case, they will insert a temporary filling between this visit and your next to prevent an infection from developing. This temporary filling will be removed at your follow up procedure.
• After these steps are complete, your dentist will place a crown in the root canal and pulp chamber that is designed to feel like your original tooth and match the appearance of your natural tooth.

Is the Procedure Always Successful?

To ensure the procedure was a success, your dentist will take an X-ray before and after your treatment in order to monitor that the bone continues to heal and regenerate. If your treatment was a success, you should be able to look forward to enjoying a healthy and stable tooth, as long as you take good oral care following this procedure. Root canals most often form due to patients neglecting their oral health, so it is important to commit to brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice daily. You may also want to start using a fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristle toothbrush. Finally, it is important that you schedule regular visits to your dentist every six months. Doing so will allow them to monitor the overall health of your teeth and prevent issues like root canals from developing in the future.

Learn More About Root Canals : How Long Does a Root Canal Take?