Root Canal Treatment

Root Canal Treatment: Causes, Symptoms and Procedures

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that can save a tooth that is infected or damaged by decay, injury or disease. It involves removing the pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels, and filling the space with a biocompatible material. This way, the tooth can be preserved and restored to its normal function and appearance.

What Causes Root Canal Problems?

The most common cause of root canal problems is tooth decay, which is the breakdown of the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth by bacteria. When tooth decay reaches the pulp, it can cause inflammation and infection, which can result in pain, sensitivity, swelling and abscess formation.

Other causes of Root Canal problems include:

- Trauma, such as a crack, chip or fracture of the tooth, which can expose the pulp to bacteria or damage the nerve.

- Repeated dental procedures, such as fillings, crowns or implants, which can weaken the tooth structure and increase the risk of infection.

- Gum disease, which can cause the gums to recede and expose the roots of the teeth, making them more vulnerable to decay and infection.

What Are the Symptoms of Root Canal Problems?

Some of the symptoms of root canal problems are:

- Severe toothache, especially when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth.

- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the stimulus is removed.

- Discoloration or darkening of the tooth.

- Swelling or tenderness of the gums around the tooth.

- A pimple-like bump on the gums near the tooth, which may drain pus or blood.

- Fever, headache or general malaise.

However, some root canal problems may not cause any symptoms at all, and may only be detected by a dental examination or an X-ray. Therefore, it is important to visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and preventive care.

How Are Root Canal Problems Diagnosed?

To diagnose root canal problems, the dentist will:

- Ask you about your medical and dental history and your symptoms.

- Examine your mouth, teeth and gums, and look for signs of infection or damage.

- Tap or apply pressure to the affected tooth, and test its sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

- Take one or more X-rays of the tooth and the surrounding bone, to see the extent of the decay or infection, and the shape and size of the root canal.

Based on the diagnosis, the dentist will determine whether you need root canal treatment or not, and explain the procedure, benefits, risks and alternatives to you.

How Is Root Canal Treatment Performed?

Root canal treatment is usually performed by a dentist or an endodontist, which is a specialist in root canal therapy. The procedure may take one or more visits, depending on the complexity and severity of the case. The steps of root canal treatment are:

- Anesthesia: The dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic, to make you comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

- Isolation: The dentist will place a rubber dam, which is a thin sheet of latex, around the tooth, to keep it dry and prevent saliva and bacteria from entering the root canal.

- Access: The dentist will make a small opening on the top or back of the tooth, to access the pulp chamber and the root canal.

- Cleaning: The dentist will use special instruments, such as files and irrigants, to remove the infected or inflamed pulp, and clean and shape the root canal.

- Filling: The dentist will fill the root canal with a material called gutta-percha, which is a rubber-like substance that seals the space and prevents reinfection. The dentist may also place a post, which is a metal or plastic rod, inside the root canal, to support the tooth structure and the filling.

- Restoration: The dentist will close the opening on the tooth with a temporary or permanent filling, to protect the tooth from further damage. The dentist may also recommend a crown, which is a cap that covers the entire tooth, to strengthen and restore the tooth to its natural shape and appearance.

What Are the Benefits of Root Canal Treatment?

The benefits of root canal treatment are:

- It can save your tooth from extraction, which can cause problems such as shifting of the adjacent teeth, loss of bone and chewing function, and changes in your bite and facial appearance.

- It can relieve your pain and discomfort, and improve your oral health and quality of life.

- It can prevent the spread of infection to other parts of your mouth or body, which can cause serious complications such as abscess, cellulitis, sepsis or endocarditis.

- It can restore the function and aesthetics of your tooth, and allow you to eat, speak and smile normally.

What Are the Risks of Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is a safe and effective procedure, but like any dental or medical treatment, it may have some risks or complications, such as:

- Pain or discomfort, which may last for a few days after the procedure, and can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription painkillers.

- Infection or reinfection, which may occur if the root canal is not properly cleaned or sealed, or if the tooth is not properly restored or protected. This may require a repeat root canal treatment, or in some cases, tooth extraction.

- Bleeding or swelling, which may occur around the tooth or the gums, and can be reduced with cold compresses or anti-inflammatory drugs.

- Damage or fracture, which may occur to the tooth or the surrounding tissues, due to the instruments, the filling material, the post or the crown. This may require a repair or replacement of the tooth or the restoration.

- Failure or loss, which may occur if the tooth or the root canal is not viable, or if the tooth or the restoration is not able to withstand the biting forces. This may require a tooth extraction or an implant.

How to Care for Your Tooth After Root Canal Treatment?

To care for your tooth after root canal treatment, you should:

- Follow the dentist's instructions and recommendations, and take any prescribed medications as directed.

- Avoid chewing or biting on the treated tooth, until it is fully restored and healed.

- Brush your teeth twice a day, and floss once a day, to keep your mouth clean and healthy.

- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, or an antiseptic mouthwash, to soothe your gums and prevent infection.

- Visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, and to complete the restoration of your tooth.

- Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or eating hard, sticky or sugary foods, which can damage your tooth or the restoration.

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that can save your tooth from infection or decay, and restore its function and appearance. If you have any symptoms or signs of root canal problems, you should visit a dentist as soon as possible, and get the treatment you need. By doing so, you can prevent further complications, and enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile.

You can make an appointment by contacting Surjen Healthcare at 08081111121 or send an email to info@surjen.com