Comfortable and Effective Root Canal Care
A root canal treatment involves removing the soft inner tissue, or pulp, from inside a tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels housed within the hollow chamber of the tooth. Since the tooth’s hard outer structure surrounds this soft tissue, any inflammation or infection inside builds pressure, leading to sharp, throbbing pain. Unlike other parts of the body where tissue can swell outward, the confined pulp chamber amplifies discomfort, often resulting in severe toothache.
How Root Canal Treatment Helps
This treatment relieves pain by removing the inflamed or infected pulp, disinfecting the inner tooth, and sealing it to prevent future infection. Once the chamber is cleaned, it’s filled with a biocompatible material to restore stability. The term “root canal” comes from the narrow extensions within each tooth root that must be carefully cleaned and sealed — some teeth have more than one canal.
Step-by-Step Root Canal Procedure
Root canal therapy uses local anesthesia to ensure comfort and a pain-free experience. Several key steps make the procedure unique:
- Rubber dam isolation: The treated tooth is isolated with a rubber dam to maintain a sterile field and prevent bacteria or saliva from entering.
- X-ray evaluation: X-rays are taken during treatment to track progress, verify canal locations, and confirm proper filling placement.
- Cleaning and shaping: Tiny dental files are used to remove the infected tissue and shape the canals for filling. Patients may feel light pressure but no pain.
The goal is to completely disinfect and seal the tooth, restoring its function and preventing reinfection.
Aftercare and Recovery Following Treatment
After treatment, the tooth is usually covered with a temporary filling, followed by a permanent filling or crown at a later visit. Since the treated tooth becomes more brittle over time, a crown helps protect it from cracking.
- Post-procedure sensitivity: Mild soreness or tenderness is normal for a few days following the procedure.
- Medication and care: Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or pain relievers to support healing and prevent infection.
- Long-term protection: A custom crown strengthens the treated tooth and restores its full function.
Following all post-care instructions helps ensure a smooth recovery and long-lasting results.