Root canal therapy is a dental procedure that requires special training and expertise to perform. It is used to treat infected or damaged teeth and can often save a tooth from extraction. If a tooth is infected or damaged beyond repair, root canal therapy can be the last chance for it to be saved.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a procedure designed to remove the innermost part of a damaged or infected tooth. During the process, the dentist will clean away the infected or damaged tissue, then fill and seal the tooth to prevent further infection. It is usually done under local anesthetic, so the patient will not feel any pain during the procedure.
The most common reason for needing a root canal is an infection in the pulp of the tooth. This pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and other tissues that help the tooth stay healthy. When this pulp becomes infected, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and even bone loss. Left untreated, the infection can spread to other teeth and jawbone.
Why is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
Root canal therapy is necessary to save an infected or damaged tooth. Without it, the tooth may need to be extracted, which can lead to significant problems. When a tooth is extracted, the surrounding teeth can shift to fill the gap, leading to an uneven bite. Additionally, an extraction can cause the jawbone to start to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation.
Root canal therapy also helps to prevent further infection. The procedure removes the infected pulp and seals the tooth, preventing bacteria from entering the tooth. This helps to protect the surrounding teeth and gums from further infection.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a relatively straightforward procedure. The dentist will first examine the tooth to determine the extent of the infection or damage. Then, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area and Gain access to the inner surface of tooth.
Once the Access cavity is prepared, the dentist will use small tools to remove the infected pulp, then clean and shape the tooth. After the cleaning and shaping are complete, the dentist will seal the tooth with a special material. The entire process usually takes one to two appointments to complete.
The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a reliable and effective procedure that can save a damaged or infected tooth. It is generally considered a safe and comfortable procedure and can help prevent further infection and damage to the tooth and surrounding teeth.
Additionally, root canal therapy can help improve a tooth’s appearance and restore its function. After the procedure, the tooth can be restored with a dental crown, bridge, or implant to help it look and function like a natural tooth.
Conclusion
Root canal therapy is a reliable and effective treatment of infected or damaged teeth. The procedure involves the removal of the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and shaping of the tooth, and filling and sealing the tooth to prevent further infection. Root canal therapy can help to save a damaged or infected tooth, improve its appearance, and restore its function.
