A root canal is a dental procedure that is performed to save a tooth that has become severely infected or damaged. It involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth and replacing it with a filling to restore the tooth’s structure and function. Root canals are a common dental procedure and are typically performed by a dentist or endodontist.
The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged due to decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, it can cause severe pain, sensitivity to temperature, and swelling in the affected area. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and bone, leading to further complications.
During a root canal procedure, the dentist or endodontist will first numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic. They will then make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Using specialized tools, they will remove the damaged or infected pulp and clean out the root canals of the tooth. The canals are then filled with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, to seal them and prevent further infection.
After the root canal procedure is complete, the dentist or endodontist, such as Best Dentist Dallas, will place a temporary filling in the tooth to protect it while a permanent restoration, such as a crown, is being fabricated. Once the permanent restoration is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary filling and place the permanent restoration to restore the tooth’s structure and function.
Root canals are a highly effective way to save a damaged or infected tooth and prevent further complications and are performed by the Dallas Best Dentist. They have a success rate of over 95%, and with proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last a lifetime. It’s essential to follow good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist regularly, to prevent future dental problems.
In some cases, a tooth may require a second root canal procedure, known as a retreatment, if the infection or damage has returned. In rare cases, a tooth may not be a good candidate for a root canal due to the extent of the damage or infection, and extraction may be necessary.
In conclusion, root canals are a common and effective dental procedure used to save a severely infected or damaged tooth. They involve removing the damaged or infected pulp and filling the canals to prevent further infection. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last a lifetime, and it’s essential to follow good oral hygiene practices to prevent future dental problems. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, schedule an appointment with your dentist to see if a root canal may be necessary.
