Root canal treatment
Root canal treatment
Root canal treatment (endodontic therapy) is a routine dental procedure used to save a severely infected or damaged tooth, avoiding extraction. It involves removing the infected, inflamed pulp (nerves and blood vessels) from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the canals, and sealing them to prevent further infection.
Why It Is Needed
Root canals are necessary when the inner pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, cracked teeth, or damage from repeated dental work. Symptoms often include severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity to hot or cold.
Contrary to myths, the procedure is designed to eliminate pain and is often as comfortable as a routine filling.
The Process starts with the dentist numbing the area, removes the pulp, cleans the canals, and fills the space with a rubber-like material (gutta-percha).
After the root canal, a crown or filling is typically placed on the tooth to restore its full function and prevent breakage.
While there might be slight sensitivity for a few days, root canal treatments have a very high success rate. With proper oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, regular checkups), the restored tooth can last a lifetime