The thought of undergoing root canal treatment can give you goosebumps. However, you must consider the advantages you will receive following the treatment and prepare yourself. This process consists mostly of a thorough root cleaning. It will keep your tooth from being extracted and offer you relief from acute pain. Our dentists at Omni Dental McMurray have put together a comprehensive list of the steps needed in root canal therapy. Gathering a clear knowledge about this topic will help you get rid of any sort of inhibition. Root canal treatment is not that painful after all.
But, before delving deeper into the topic, you should know what a root canal is. If your tooth is severely infected, your dentist in McMurray may recommend root canal therapy. The degenerating pulp is removed, and the damaged area is thoroughly cleaned. The tooth is cleaned and protected against further injury. Swelling and discomfort are possible side effects. This, however, will only last for a brief time. In the long run, a root canal will avoid any health problems caused by poor oral hygiene.
Steps Of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal therapy is a very basic surgery. The infected pulp must be removed, and the canals must be filled. Most patients will require a temporary crown following treatment. The steps involved are:
- The dentist will numb the region first. Using injections, the numbing chemical is delivered into the gums and the base of the tooth. After the area has been numbed, the dentist places a dental dam in the mouth. Covering the rest of the teeth in the mouth isolates the tooth that requires a root canal.
- The dentist will next drill into the tooth to gain access to the root canals and nerve chamber. The nerve chamber and root canals are cleaned by the dentist with instruments. An antibacterial and antiseptic solution is used to clean and disinfect the canals. This eliminates the germs and treats the infection in the canals at the same time.
- Filling the root canals is the responsibility of the dentist. The canals must first be shaped. The dentist will shape the canals with tiny devices so that they are ready to accept the filling material. The canals are then cleansed for a second time once they have been formed.
- The dentist will fill the canals with gutta-percha. This rubbery substance is heated after being placed into the canals. The dentist will compress it so that it fits tightly against the walls. To further seal the canals, the dentist applies sticky cement. Bacteria cannot enter channels that have been adequately sealed.
- The dentist must additionally close the opening created to gain access to the canals. The filling prevents bacteria from penetrating the tooth. The dentist may need to place a post into the canal to strengthen the tooth. This is the sole option if the tooth is severely damaged and cannot support restoration on its own.
- The dentist may write an antibiotic prescription and send it home with the patient. The treatment eliminates the remaining infection. The patient will also be advised on aftercare. It's common to feel a little sore for a few days after the treatment. Over-the-counter pain medications are commonly used to alleviate discomfort.
- The patient will need to return for a crown if the root canal was on a rear tooth or if the tooth has considerable damage. The crown strengthens and stabilizes the treated tooth by surrounding it. The permanent crown is custom-made to fit the patient's natural teeth. The tooth can now withstand the stresses of chewing once more.
Now that you know the steps involved in the root canal treatment, do not hesitate to go for it (when required). Book an appointment at Omni Dental McMurray if you are looking for the best and safe root canal treatment in McMurray, PA. Call us to know more.