Root Canal Therapy Saves Natural Teeth
Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.
Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would die and have to be removed. Many patients believe that removing a tooth that has problems is the solution, but what is not realized is that extracting (pulling) a tooth will ultimately be more costly and cause significant problems for adjacent teeth.
Root canal treatment is highly successful and usually lasts a lifetime, although on occasion, a tooth will have to be retreated due to new infections.
Signs and Symptoms for Possible Root Canal Therapy
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Severe toothache pain.
- Sometimes no symptoms are present.
- Swelling and/or tenderness.
Reasons for Root Canal Therapy
- Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
- Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
- Injury or trauma to the tooth.
What Does Root Canal Therapy Involve?
A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).
While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva. An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments.
Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.
At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function.
After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.
You will be given care instructions after each appointment. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.
What is root canal therapy and why is it needed?
A.
Root canal therapy is a treatment used to save a tooth when its nerve (pulp) becomes infected or damaged by deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. The infected tissue is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and then it is sealed to restore full function.
Q.
Is root canal therapy painful?
A.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure thanks to modern anesthetics and gentle techniques. After treatment, any mild soreness typically resolves quickly and can be managed with over‑the‑counter pain relief.
Q.
How can I tell if I might need a root canal?
A.
Common signs include persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers, swelling or tenderness in nearby gums, darkening of the tooth, or a recurring pimple‑like bump on the gum. Your dentist at SK2 Dental will perform a complete exam to determine if a root canal is necessary.
Q.
Will my tooth be strong after a root canal?
A.
Yes. After root canal therapy, your tooth is typically restored with a crown or filling, which helps strengthen the tooth and protect it from future damage. With proper care, a root‑canal‑treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Q.
How do I care for a tooth after root canal therapy?
A.
Continue good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and keeping up with regular dental check‑ups and cleanings. Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration (crown) is placed.
