Root Canal
Root canal treatment is also known as endodontic treatment. A root canal specialist is called an endodontist.
The exterior of our teeth is enamel, but inside is a soft pulp tissue which contains the nerve. This nerve senses hot and cold. The inner tooth also contains a blood supply to provide nutrients to the tooth. The inner pulp tissue can be damaged by dental decay or a tooth fracture resulting from an accidental injury.
If bacteria invade the pulp tissue inside your tooth, they will spread infection from the top of the tooth to the root tips, which are connected to the jawbone. In addition, pus can accumulate and form an abscess which can be extremely painful. Root canal treatment relieves the pain and fixes the problem by removing the diseased inner pulp of the tooth, then filling and sealing.
The dentist uses a dental dam which is a thin sheet of rubber to isolate the tooth and prevent spread of infection. X-rays help determine the length of the root canal. Then the dentist makes an opening through the top of the tooth into the pulp chamber, and cleans the diseased tissue away being very careful of the nerve. Antibiotics may be prescribed to help speed the healing of the infection and the tooth may be left open to drain, or a temporary seal may be put in place.
Once the bacteria are eradicated, the inner canal space is filled with a latex-like material called gutta percha, and a sealant is applied to prevent bacteria from re-entering. A metal post may be inserted to provide support within the tooth and for the crown which will be placed.
A root canal can take several appointments to finalize all the steps. When the root canal is finished, your tooth will no longer have a nerve. This means the tooth will not sense hot or cold, or signs of tooth decay. Regular dental check-ups with periodic x-rays are necessary to help avoid future disease in the tooth.
