Dentists often consider the root canal procedure a last resort effort to save a tooth. Often, when the cavities finally reach the pulp of the tooth, then a root canal procedure becomes more necessary. However, many people need to understand how the procedure works and often have wrong interpretations based on hearsay.
Fortunately, a root canal procedure is only time consuming and is not painful or dangerous. Since you will usually employ the services of an experienced dentist or an orthodontist, they can complete the procedure fairly quickly.
When Does a Root Canal Procedure Become Necessary
A root canal is a very serious procedure that a dentist will recommend when other procedures are not working as well. Since it is an invasive procedure, an orthodontist will only wait until it is necessary to recommend it.
Furthermore, there are also various signs that you can look out for, making it very obvious that you might need a root canal. These signs include:
- Darkened Gums and Deep Decay: if the decay has reached the inside of the pulp and you can see your gums darken, you need to get a root canal.
- Aching or Swollen Gums: Swelling in the gums signifies that the infection has reached too far deep into the root. Therefore, a root canal becomes necessary.
Other common reasons for getting a root canal include the following:
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Teeth are especially sensitive to hot or cold environments
- Cracked or chipped teeth
The Root Canal Procedure
A dentist or an endodontist will likely be performing the procedure. An orthodontist has a similar skill set to a regular dentist, with the biggest difference being that an endodontist specializes in various specialized procedures such as root canals.
As for the procedure, here is what you can expect:
X Ray and Anesthesia
Before an endodontist can start the root canal procedure, the first step is to get an X Ray of the infected area. The X ray will help them see the infected area clearly, after which they will move on to the next step, which is often anesthesia.
Although the nerve ending in a tooth will usually die off when it is time for the procedure, most dentists will prefer giving anesthesia. Most patients can feel uneasy about a professional working on their teeth without numbing them first. Once they apply the anesthesia, they can start the procedure.
Placing the Rubber Dam
The next step in the procedure is to apply a rubber dam to the affected area to keep saliva out.
Drilling into and Cleaning the Tooth
Once an orthodontist makes all necessary preparations, they can move on to cleaning the tooth. First, they will drill an access point into the tooth, allowing them to extract the dead nerves or bacteria. You don’t have to worry since the anesthesia will keep you numb throughout the procedure.
Next, after they remove the dead pulp, they use a file to scrape all of the dead or infected tissue off the root canals. When they are done, they will wash away the debris using water.
Sealing the Tooth
Once they clean the tooth, the endodontist will then move on to sealing it. However, most professionals like to wait before they properly seal the tooth. The endodontist will add the filling and seal the tooth by the next appointment.
Root Canal Procedure: Conclusion
A root canal is a painless procedure often becomes very important if the pulp is infected. If you see your gums start to swell, then you should visit an endodontist immediately.
If you’re looking for a professional dentist to help you with your teeth, why not try Ideal Smiles Dental? They have multiple dentists with decades of experience in the field, so visit Idealsmilesdental.com today and book an appointment.
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Staten Island, NY 10309