Root Canal
The Root Canal treatment (RCT)/Endodontic treatment is a painless procedure performed by the dentist when the pulp of a tooth is infected or exposed. The treatment is performed to eliminate the pain, remove the bacteria that cause the infection and seal the tooth. The RCT is the procedure of choice when you have a toothache/abscess and you want to save your tooth.
How does the pulp get infected?
The pulp is the "heart" of a tooth where the nerve, blood vessels, and several important types of cells are located. So, when the decay from an untreated cavity progresses deep enough to reach the pulp, the bacteria start to multiply in high numbers causing an infection. The bacteria and their products irritate the nerve endings of the pulp and toothache is a common symptom.
What does the Dentist Do?
The dentist first numbs the tooth and then uses special tools and solutions to clean the infected pulp from all the bacteria. After the tooth is cleaned, the dentist then takes an X-ray, fills the empty pulp chamber with a specific material to seal it and prevent reinfection. At the end a temporary or permanent filling is placed.
Usually, as substantial tooth structure is removed during the procedure the tooth is weakened. So, a restoration with a crown (cap) is advised in order to avoid potential breaking of the tooth in the future, especially if it is a back tooth.
How long does it take?
The procedure can last from 30 to 60 minutes; Also, depending on the case, sometimes more than one appointment may be needed to complete the treatment.
Will It Hurt?
No. Contrary to common belief, Root Canal Treatment is performed under Local anesthesia; that means that the tooth is completely numb before any treatment is initiated. The treatment should not feel any different than a common filling.
Why not extract the tooth?
While extraction is another option when you have toothache, Root Canal treatment is the best choice if you want to keep your tooth for as long as possible.
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So overall, a Root Canal Treatment can stop your toothache, is painless and can literally save your tooth!
