Don’t worry, Root canal treatment is actually a very common, safe and simple procedure. This treatment is for pain relief.
In this article, we will explain the step-by-step process of a root canal procedure.
Step 1: Local anesthesia
Local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth that needs treatment and the surrounding area. Doctors will wait until the area is completely numb before starting treatment.
Step 2: Dental dam
The Doctor will use a thin layer of rubber or vinyl to create a dental dam. This method isolates teeth that need root canals by covering the rest of the teeth in the mouth. This will keep the tooth clean and dry during the treatment.
Step 3: Drilling
The dentist uses a special drill to make a small hole in the tooth, allowing to access the root canal and pulp cavity for treatment.
Step 4: Cleaning the root
Dentists use instruments to remove the dead pulp from inside of the tooth and root canals. Once the pulp and the nerves that contain it are removed, the affected tooth itself no longer feels pain. The inside of the canal is then disinfected.
Step 5: Shaping the root canal
Root canal files are used to shape the canal to accept filling and sealers. Once shaped, your dentist will rinse the remaining pulp with various solutions. The tooth and surrounding area should be thoroughly dried before proceeding to the next step.
Step 6: Filling the root canal
The dentist will use gutta-percha to fill the canal space. It is a thermoplastic material, after heating and pressurizing, it is attached to the root canal wall and plays a sealing role. The dentist adds adhesive to further seal the canal. It is very important to keep the tooth from becoming reinfected later.
Step 7: If needed, post may be inserted
If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to support the placement of the restoration, a post may be inserted into the root canal to help maintain filling.
Step 8: Filling to the access hole
A temporary or permanent filling material is then placed to seal the entrance hole used for treatment of the canal and the dental dam is removed. The filling material prevents bacteria from entering the tooth.
The dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat or prevent infection. After the operation, often feel some slight pain and discomfort, but should only last a few days. If so, over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to relieve the pain.
Step 9: Adding the crown
After the tooth nerve is removed, the tooth is very fragile and can easily break again. For this reason, the patient may be advised to wear a crown as appropriate to protect the tooth that have already been filled.
After root canal treatment, you must strictly follow the doctor’s advice to maintain correct oral cleaning habits and receive regular oral examinations. Today, root canal treatment is a simple, straightforward procedure to save teeth, and in most cases, it’s done with minimal discomfort or pain. I hope this step-by-step explanation will give people a better understanding of root canal treatment. It may be worth it to save a tooth that can be healthy for life.
