Root canal therapy might sound intimidating, but it’s a standard dental procedure that saves teeth and alleviates pain. Over 15 million root canals are performed each year in the U.S. By understanding what a root canal involves, you can approach the procedure with confidence.
What Root Canal Therapy Involves
Root canal therapy, or root canal treatment, removes the infected or inflamed pulp inside a tooth. The pulp, a soft tissue located in the center of the tooth, contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When this pulp becomes damaged or infected due to deep cavities, cracks, or trauma, it can cause severe pain and lead to abscess formation.
During the procedure, the dentist numbs the area surrounding the affected tooth to ensure comfort. Your dentist then makes an access hole in the crown of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber. They remove the infected pulp, then clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth to eliminate bacteria and prevent reinfection.
Once cleaned, the empty pulp chamber and root canals are filed and shaped, then filled with a rubber-like material called gutta percha. Finally, the tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling, and a dental crown is often placed to restore the tooth’s strength and functionality.
Why Root Canal Therapy is Necessary
Root canal therapy is necessary when a tooth's health is compromised. Your dentist may suggest a root canal to:
- Save the tooth. The primary goal of root canal treatment is to save the tooth. Removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth prevents extraction and allows patients to retain their natural tooth, which is always preferable to prosthetic replacements.
- Relieve pain. Infected or inflamed pulp can cause intense pain, swelling, and sensitivity. Root canal therapy alleviates these symptoms by removing the source of the infection.
- Prevent further infection. Untreated infections can lead to more severe health issues, including bone loss, abscesses, and systemic infections. Root canal therapy helps prevent these complications by thoroughly cleaning and sealing the tooth.
What Patients Can Expect During and After the Procedure
Root canal therapy has gained a negative reputation over the years. Many people believe that the procedure is extremely painful when, in reality, the treatment removes the source of the pain. Understanding what to expect can help reduce anxiety about the procedure:
- During the procedure. Patients typically experience little to no pain during root canal therapy due to local anesthesia. The dentist ensures the area is numb before starting. The duration of the procedure varies but generally takes about 90 minutes.
- After the procedure. Mild discomfort or sensitivity in the affected tooth is expected for a few days following the treatment. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually enough to manage this discomfort. Patients should avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored with a crown to prevent damage.
- Long-term care. Frequent check-ups at the dentist and good oral hygiene practices are essential to maintain the health of the treated tooth. Brushing, flossing, and routine dentist visits will help ensure root canal therapy’s success and oral health.
Find Relief and Preserve Your Smile With Root Canal Therapy
Learning about root canal therapy can help you feel more at ease when facing this standard dental procedure. If you suspect you need a root canal or have concerns about oral health, Valley Dental Care can help. Please schedule an appointment and let our professionals provide the care you need for a healthy, pain-free smile.