Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is performed to save a severely infected or damaged tooth by removing the infected pulp and disinfecting the root canal system. Here's what the procedure involves:
Diagnosis
Your dentist examines the tooth and may use X-rays to determine the extent of infection or damage to the pulp (soft tissue inside the tooth).
Local Anesthesia
The area around the tooth is numbed to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Pulp Removal
An opening is created in the tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp, which is then carefully removed from the root canals.
Cleaning and Shaping
The root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to remove any remaining bacteria and debris.
Filling and Sealing
After thorough cleaning, the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Restoration:
A dental crown or filling is placed on the treated tooth to restore its function and protect it from further damage.
Root canal treatment alleviates pain, preserves the natural tooth, and prevents the spread of infection, allowing you to maintain a healthy smile.