People often panic thinking of root canal treatment, which is an endodontic procedure. If there is deep decay in a tooth, which has led to the infection of the pulp, your dentist may recommend what is called a root canal treatment. The procedure can be done in one appointment, but a dentist may rely on two or three sittings to complete the job more comfortably without excessive pain. If you are visiting a Fairfield, ME dental office for the procedure, here’s what you need to know about root canal therapy in steps.
- As the first step, your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area. You may feel slight heaviness as the anesthesia sets in, but this should subside in a few minutes.
- The dentist will then use a dental dam to isolate the infected tooth, which will help keep the tooth dry.
- In the next step, the dentist will create a tiny hole on the top of the tooth to create an access opening. This allows the dentist will reach the pulp and root canals.
- Using special files, the dentist will remove tissues and the pulp along with any decay from the tooth. In a way, this kills the tooth as all the nerves inside the tooth are removed.
- The dentist will use an antibacterial solution to irrigate the canals and clear out any debris. They will also use medications to treat any leftover infection.
- Once the root canals have been cleaned, the dentist will use a sealant as the final step. A flexible material called gutta-percha is used inside the canal. The access opening will be sealed using a permanent or temporary filling, as required.
- Your dentist will typically ask you to come back and get a new crown for the treated tooth, which will add to its strength, shape, and size. You may need two additional sittings to get the crown.
When done correctly, root canal treatment can help protect a tooth that has suffered an injury or has a deep cavity. Contrary to what many people think, the procedure is not painful, and in most cases, the dentist will take two sittings to reduce pain and anxiety. If you still have questions, don’t forget to ask in advance. Keep in mind that root canal treatment allows the dentist to save an infected tooth, especially when an extraction is the only other option.
