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Complete Guide to Root Canal - Carrum Downs Dental


For most people, the mention of the words root canal sends shivers down their spine. Root canal treatment has been vilified for a long period because of the supposed long, painful process. However, contrary to popular belief, root canal treatments are actually meant to save you from pain and restore a tooth that would have otherwise been extracted. A root canal is a treatment performed on a badly damaged/decayed tooth whereby the exposed nerves are removed and the tooth is filled with composite material to restore the look and function of the tooth. This article will take you through a complete guide to the root canal process, but first, let us look at some of the causes of a root canal.

Causes of root canal treatment
First and foremost, a root canal is not a condition but a treatment to save a severely damaged tooth. A dentist will recommend a root canal treatment if decay-causing bacteria has reached the tooth pulp exposing nerve endings that cause a severe toothache. A root canal can also be recommended if a tooth injury extends to the tooth pulp, such as in a cracked tooth, and the tooth has to be restored.

The root canal process
The first step to a root canal treatment is usually the diagnosis. This can be done by taking x-rays of the affected tooth. The treatment process involves removing the decayed or damaged part of the tooth (pulp), including the exposed nerves, cleaning and disinfecting the area to the roots, and then filling it with bonding material and usually involves four stages.
First, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area, so you don’t feel any pain during the process.
Next, the dentist will use special tools, including small drills, to remove and clear out the damaged pulp of the tooth. He will then clean and disinfect the area thoroughly to make sure that the damaged pulp is completely removed.
Depending on the state of the tooth, after thorough cleaning and drying, the tooth is filled with a temporary filling. The most commonly used filling is a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. With most root canals, the permanent filling or crown usually comes after a week or two.
On your next visit, the dentist will now restore the tooth by applying a crown or filling the drilled area with the most appropriate filling material. If the natural tooth structure is too damaged and cannot support the crown or the restoration, the dentist will use a small post inside the tooth to support the crown or the filling.


After treatment
Taking care of your oral health remains paramount even after a root canal treatment. Try to maintain good oral hygiene to avoid new cavities and prevent future infections. With excellent oral hygiene, your tooth may last a lifetime without subsequent visits to the dentist.

Conclusion
If you or any of your loved ones suspect you need a root canal, CarrumDowns dental clinic offers expert painless root canal treatment to ensure your comfort during the procedure.


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