Root Canal Treatment

Do you have an infected tooth? Did your dentist recommend you endodontic treatment? Are you worried and wondering whether to undergo this dental procedure or not? If so, then you should first know that you are not alone! There are millions of people out there who get endodontic treatment also known as root canal treatment each year. This is the best dental treatment to relieve your tooth pain and save your beautiful smile.

Anatomy of the Tooth
The best way to understand the root canal procedure is to first learn about the tooth’s anatomy. The part of the tooth that is visible to the eye is called the crown and is made of enamel. Beneath the enamel is dentin which is a substance harder than the jaw bone. Under the dentine there is a soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp consists of blood vessels, connective tissues and nerves which supply blood and sensation to the entire tooth.
The endodontic treatment is needed when the pulp becomes infected and inflamed due to bacteria. As the bacteria begin to multiply, it starts to pass down the root canal causing tissues around the end of the tooth to become swollen and red. If it continues, it leads to dental abscess that is when the pulp of the tooth dies and a pus pocket forms around the root. If left untreated, it can result in tooth loss.

Causes of Infection and Inflammation
There can be various causes such as:
Repeated dental procedures on the tooth
Deep decay
Chipped tooth
Faulty crowns

Root Canal Treatment- The Best Way to Save the Tooth
This treatment is required to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth from further damage or loss. It is preferably the best method to save the tooth rather than having it pulled out and getting an artificial one.
It helps keep your tooth and prevents your other teeth from drifting out of line and causing more jaw problems.

Root Canal- Procedure and Tooth Restoration
The dentist first makes an opening in the tooth to reach the root canal system and the infected pulp. During this procedure the pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned properly. After the canal is cleaned and disinfected, it is then filled and sealed with a rubber like material also called gutta-percha. Then the tooth is restored with either a temporary or permanent filling or a crown. This helps the tooth to function properly.