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Request a Free ConsultationA root canal is a procedure that treats deep decay or infection. It saves a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Root canal infections occur after the inner layer of the tooth, known as the dental pulp, becomes inflamed or infected due to dental decay, deep fillings, or a crack in the tooth. During a root canal, the nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Having a root canal is often the best way to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed, but your dentist may suggest extraction if other treatments can’t save your tooth. With modern techniques in anesthesia and sedation, most patients don't feel any more pain than a regular dental cleaning.
The root cause of root canal infections is often the result of untreated tooth decay. Bacteria that live in your mouth feed off of sugars and starches. Increased sugar intake combined with decreased oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay. Once the decay process has begun, bacteria multiply rapidly and release toxins that kill healthy oral tissue.
First, we prepare the tooth being treated. This involves removing the decayed tissue from the tooth and cleaning out the infected tooth pulp. Then, we seal the tooth with a dental filling. Finally, the tooth is capped with a dental crown, which protects the tooth from future damage.
Dentists usually recommend a root canal treatment when the tooth pulp becomes inflamed and infected. The pulp is the part of the tooth that houses blood vessels and nerves. A root canal treatment removes the infected pulp, kills any lingering bacteria, and seals the root canals of your tooth.
A root canal infection is characterized by tooth pain, a throbbing sensation, tenderness, and sensitivity. In some cases, it may cause discomfort and swelling around the affected area. It can also cause bad breath. The infection is caused by bacteria, which can enter the tooth and infect the pulp and root.
First, we prepare the tooth being treated. This involves removing the decayed tissue from the tooth and cleaning out the infected tooth pulp. Then, we seal the tooth with a dental filling. Finally, the tooth is capped with a dental crown, which protects the tooth from future damage.
There are two main categories of root canals: vital and nonvital.
A vital root canal is one that is necessary to save a tooth. The dental pulp, or the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected and abscessed. This infected dental pulp must be removed. Once it is removed, the tooth can be restored with a dental filling or dental crown.
A nonvital root canal is one that is done for cosmetic purposes. A nonvital root canal may also be done for restorative purposes, such as removing the infected dental pulp. However, a nonvital root canal will not restore a tooth to its full function. This means that if a tooth requires a full restoration, a dental crown or dental filling, a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture will be recommended instead.
While root canals are a relatively routine procedure, there are steps that patients can take to prolong the success of the procedure. Some rinses, rinses, and mouth rinses should not be used until after the root canal procedure. After the root canal procedure, your mouth may be sore for a few days. You can care for your mouth following the procedure by rinsing with warm salt water several times a day. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen. Patients who smoke should quit smoking before the procedure and should refrain from smoking for up to two weeks after. Patients should also restrict their activity levels after the root canal procedure. Patients can resume normal levels of activity after the procedure, but overexerting themselves can lead to an abscess.
Root canal therapy can relieve your painful symptoms quickly and permanently. You may need a dental crown after your root canal, especially if your tooth is cracked or chipped. If a dental crown is needed, your dental team will create an impression of your teeth and send the dental lab a custom dental crown. Once your dental crown is ready, your dentist will bond this restoration to your tooth. Once your dental crown is in place, your tooth will be protected and restored to its natural function.
The best way to prevent a root canal infection is to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing regularly will eliminate plaque and bacteria that build up in the mouth. Regular checkups with the dentist will also help you catch any dental problems early on.