Root canal treatment: what to expect
Patients may require a root canal for a variety of reasons. If a tooth is badly decayed, that decay can spread to the root and pulp of the tooth. Also, dental traumas such as a broken tooth can expose the tooth root, leaving it vulnerable to infection. An infection in the root and pulp of the tooth can cause the patient a great deal of discomfort and inflammation. It is important to treat the infection promptly before it causes health complications such as an abscess. Without treatment, bacteria from the infection can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body.
Many patients have anxiety about having a root canal done. In truth, a root canal is no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled, though the procedure is more complex. If a person has an infected tooth root, having a root canal will likely ease their discomfort. Being informed about what goes on during a root canal can greatly ease your mind if you are in need of a root canal and experiencing anxiety about the procedure.
During a root canal, the infected or dead pulp (the inner nerves and blood vessels) from inside the tooth are removed. The dentist begins by applying local anaesthesia and isolating the area with a rubber dam. Our dental team is experienced in administering pain- relief to our patients and dealing with patients who are anxious about dental procedures. Upon your visit, we will determine the best form of pain relief to make you as comfortable as possible. The dentist will then drill an opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp, and remove it and clean the area with specialized tools. The dentist fills the root space with a filling material. Finally, the dentist must seal the surface of the tooth with a crown to prevent further infection and restore the function and appearance of the tooth. The dentist begins by applying local anaesthesia and isolating the area with a rubber dam. Then they drill an opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp, and remove it and clean the area with specialized tools. The dentist fills the root space with a filling material. Finally ,the dentist must seal the surface of the tooth with a crown to prevent further infection and restore the function and appearance of the tooth.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, conditions that make a root canal necessary can be avoided. However, many people will require a root canal in their life to save an infected tooth. Root canals are one of the most routine dental procedures, and thousands of root canals are safely performed each day. If you require a root canal, Dr. Oliveros will ensure that you are as comfortable as possible during your treatment.
