What Is A Root Canal ?
A root canal is a dental procedure performed to save a severley damaged or infected tooth. It involves the removal of the infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of the tooth, followed by cleaning, disinfection, and sealing of the root canal system. The goal of this treatment is to eliminate pain, preserve the natural tooth, and prevent the spread of infection.
Root Canal At Gargrave Dental Practice
The process of a root canal typically involves several steps. Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of the tooth and surrounding tissues, and may take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. If a root canal is deemed necessary, your dentist will explain the procedure and address any concerns or questions you may have.
1. Initially, your dentist will administer a local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. This ensures that you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. Once the tooth is numb, the dentist creates a small access hole in the tooth’s crown to reach the pulp chamber and root canals.
2. Your dentist will carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from the tooth’s root canal system. The canals are then cleaned and shaped to prepare them for the filling material. This step is crucial to ensure the complete removal of bacteria, and infected tissue.
3. Once the canals are cleaned and disinfected, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material seals the canals, preventing the re-entry of bacteria and reducing the risk of further infection. In some cases, your dentist may place a temporary filling to close the access hole until a permanent restoration, such as a dental crown, can be placed.
4. Following your root canal, the tooth may be weaker and more prone to fracture. Therefore, a dental crown is often recommended to protect and strengthen the tooth. The dental crown is custom-made to fit over the treated tooth, providing additional support and restoring its natural appearance.
Why A Root Canal Treatment Is The Best Option For A Diseased Or Damaged Tooth
- Pain relief: If you are experiencing pain from an infected or damaged tooth, root canal treatment can provide relief by removing the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth.
- Preservation of the natural tooth: If your tooth is damaged or infected, root canal treatment is the ideal option to avoid losing your tooth.
- Avoidance of further problems: Root canal treatment can help to prevent the infection from spreading and causing irreparable damage to your tooth.
- Cost-effective: In many cases, root canal treatment can be a more cost-effective option, compared to replacing a diseased or damaged tooth with an artificial solution.
