Root Canal Procedure
Also known as endodontic therapy, a root canal procedure is designed to save a tooth from extraction when its inner portion has experienced damage due to infection or decay. The root canal treatment process consists of taking out the harmful living material that is present inside the tooth and then replacing it with medicated fillings to encourage healing. This allows us to retain the original structure of the tooth, while also restoring its function and appearance.
Root Canal Infection
A tooth develops a root canal infection when decay spreads to its inner pulp or when a bacterial infection develops inside the tooth or at its root tip. There are many symptoms of a root canal infection, including:
- Severe, agonizing toothache
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks
- Swollen and tender gums
- Abscess on the gums
When providing root canal treatment for a patient, we start by placing a small rubber sheet around the damaged tooth. This prevents the infection from spreading during the procedure, while also keeping the tooth dry. Next, special dental tools are used to access the tooth’s inner portion so that any infected pulp, damaged nerve tissue and visible decay can be removed. The inner area of the tooth is then thoroughly cleaned and sealed with a filling substance. To finish the procedure, a dental crown is applied over the surface of the tooth in order to prevent any fractures from occurring.
