What Is a Root Canal?
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you might be wondering what the procedure involves and why it’s necessary. Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed. It helps eliminate infection, relieve pain, and preserve your natural smile. If you’re looking for a clear explanation of what a root canal is and what to expect, read on to learn more.
Why Is a Root Canal Needed?
A root canal is performed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes damaged, infected, or dies. The pulp is a soft tissue located in the center of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp is injured or infected, it can lead to pain and swelling. If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to an abscess and potential bone loss around the tooth.
Common reasons for pulp damage include a deep cavity, a cracked or broken tooth, or an injury to the tooth. Even if the injury happened long ago, it could still cause problems that surface later. In many cases, a root canal is the only way to save the tooth and avoid extraction.
How Is a Root Canal Performed?
Root canal treatment usually takes place over one or more dental visits, depending on the complexity of the case. The procedure begins by numbing the tooth and the surrounding area to ensure comfort. An opening is made in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
Once the damaged or infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and shaped to prepare it for filling. If the treatment requires more than one visit, a temporary filling will be placed to protect the tooth in between appointments.
At the next stage, the temporary filling is removed, and the canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material helps seal the canals and prevents bacteria from re-entering. In some cases, a metal or plastic post may be placed inside the canal to provide additional support, especially if the tooth is severely damaged.
After the root canal is completed, the tooth will usually need a crown to restore its shape, strength, and function. A crown protects the tooth from future fractures and allows it to function like a natural tooth.
How Long Does a Treated Tooth Last?
A tooth that has been treated with a root canal can last many years with proper care. However, because the tooth no longer contains living pulp, it can become more brittle over time. This is why restoring the tooth with a crown is often recommended to help protect it from breaking.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, is essential to keep the treated tooth healthy. Your dentist will monitor the tooth with X-rays to ensure that the surrounding bone remains healthy and free from infection.
If you’ve been advised to have a root canal, speak with your dentist to learn more about what the procedure involves and how it can help preserve your natural tooth.