Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth that has become severely damaged or infected. The process involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.

Initially, the dentist assesses the tooth through an examination and X-rays to determine if a root canal is necessary. Local anesthesia is then administered to numb the affected area. The dentist creates a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals, then uses specialized instruments to clean out the infected or damaged pulp, shape the canals, and prepare them for filling. The canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal them and prevent future infection. Finally, the access opening is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling, and often a crown is placed on the tooth to restore its strength and function.

Root canal treatment can alleviate pain, save the tooth from extraction, and maintain its functionality for years, provided proper aftercare and regular dental check-ups are followed.