The Procedure for Root Canal Treatment

The tooth consists of three different layers. Enamel is the outermost part of your teeth made up of calcium phosphate minerals. Beneath the enamel is the dentin with very tiny tubes that are sensitive to hot, cold, or acidic substances. The innermost layer known as the pulp is made up of nerves and blood vessels. Without early intervention, tooth decay may affect the pulp and result in an infection. However, with Bronx root canal treatment, it is possible to clean out the decay and maintain your tooth’s structure.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is an endodontic treatment that involves eliminating infected pulp and filling the bare roots. This treatment is designed to fix a badly damaged tooth instead of extracting it. Decades ago, many patients would experience intense pain during the procedure. However, with advancements in dental technology, you may experience little to no pain during the procedure.

Who is eligible for a root canal?

Your dentist is in a better position to determine whether you need a root canal. However, several signs and symptoms may indicate a need for medical treatment. For example:

• Tooth sensitivity. You may experience sharp pain when consuming hot, cold, or acidic food substances.
• Swelling in your face, gums, and neck
• Cracked tooth enamel
• Tooth discoloration
• Intense and persistent pain
• A loose tooth

Treatment process

Examination and preparation for a root canal treatment

You may require one or two visits to your dentist to get started with treatment. However, you may need additional visits if your condition is complex. During an examination, your specialist may use dental x-rays to determine the severity of damage to your tooth. The use of a local anesthetic before the procedure helps to minimize pain. You may experience immediate sharp pain as your dentist administers the anesthesia. During treatment, your mouth and teeth need to be dry and free from saliva. To achieve this, your dentist may use a dental dam.

Removal of infected pulp and cleaning of the pulp chamber

After your tooth is numb, your endodontist will create an opening on the tooth’s surface to access the infected pulp and remove the tooth canals using dental tools known as files. It is necessary to clean out and flush the pulp chamber before applying a permanent filling. Your dentist may use medication to get rid of any infection or may prescribe antibiotics if the infection has spread to the jaw bone. The tooth is then left open for several days to allow draining. Your doctor may use a temporary filling to cover your tooth and prevent the entry of debris and saliva.

You may need to avoid chewing foods using that particular tooth until treatment is complete.

Filling the root canal

Anesthesia is not necessary during this step. Your doctor will remove the temporary filling to create space for a permanent filling. Your dentist will now fill the interior of the tooth using a rubber compound and a sealer paste.

Tooth decay may weaken the enamel. It is essential to protect your tooth’s surface from further damage and restore its normal functioning. Although this is not necessary, your dentist may recommend a crown to cover your tooth’s surface. Dental crowns can be custom-made to match the rest of your teeth.

You do not have to extract your tooth in case of decay. Visit your dentist, Nishita Gandhi, DDS, for root canal treatment to get rid of the infected pulp and restore the normal functioning of your teeth.