Understanding and Performing Root Canal Treatment

What is Endodontic Treatment and How Can It Be Done?

Endodontic treatment, more commonly known as root canal therapy, is a dental procedure designed to treat infections or damage to the tooth’s pulp. This treatment aims to alleviate pain and save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. During the procedure, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans and seals the tooth to prevent further issues. It is essential for maintaining dental health and preserving natural teeth.

Our tooth has three layers: the outermost layer, enamel, which is visible and white; the second layer, dentin, present under the enamel; and the innermost layer, the dental pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels that provide sensory supply and nutrition to the tooth. Root canal treatment is the denervation of the tooth in order to avoid pain caused when the infection reaches the pulp. Once the tooth is denervated, the pain sensations stop, providing relief.

However, root canal treatment makes the tooth weaker as it is now deprived of the nutritional supply from the dental pulp. Therefore, it is important to prevent infections from spreading to the pulp by getting regular dental checkups. At Dent Heal, we are committed to early diagnosis and quality treatment, being a team of top dentists in Mumbai.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, or RCT, is a dental procedure performed to treat infections or damage within the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to decay, trauma, or other factors, a root canal treatment may be necessary to save the tooth and alleviate pain.

Steps Involved in a Root Canal Treatment

Diagnostics and Examination: The first step in a root canal treatment is a thorough examination by a dentist or endodontist. This typically involves taking X-rays to assess the extent of the damage and determine if a root canal is necessary. Symptoms such as severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling of the gums, or a pimple-like bump on the gum near the tooth can indicate the need for a root canal. Anesthesia: Before beginning the procedure, the dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. This ensures that the patient remains comfortable throughout the procedure. Accessing the Pulp: Once the tooth is numb, the dentist creates a small opening in the top of the tooth, known as an access cavity, to access the infected or inflamed pulp. This allows the dentist to remove the diseased tissue and clean out the root canals. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals: Using specialized instruments, the dentist carefully removes the infected or damaged pulp tissue from the root canals. The canals are then cleaned and shaped to remove any remaining bacteria, debris, and infected tissue. Irrigation with antimicrobial solutions helps to disinfect the canals thoroughly. Filling the Canals: After the canals have been cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This seals off the canals to prevent recontamination and provides support for the tooth structure. Sealing the Access Cavity: Once the root canals have been filled, the access cavity in the tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling material to prevent bacteria from entering and causing further infection. Restoration: In some cases, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may require additional restoration such as a dental crown to protect and strengthen the tooth. A crown is placed over the tooth to restore its natural appearance and function.

Root canal treatment is highly successful in saving teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to infection or damage to the pulp. With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can function normally for many years, allowing patients to preserve their natural smiles and oral health.