Root Canal Treatment
Root Canal Treatment
Root Canal Treatment (RCT), also known as Endodontic treatment, is a painless procedure designed to save an infected or inflamed tooth from worsening or requiring extraction. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure, and addressing a decayed, painful, or infected tooth promptly is crucial for maintaining your oral health.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for RCT
- Severe Toothache – Pain when chewing or applying pressure.
- Prolonged Sensitivity – Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers.
- Discoloration of the Tooth – Darkening of a tooth may indicate infection.
- Swelling and Tenderness in the Gums – Around the affected tooth.
- Pimple on the Gums – A recurring pimple near the infected tooth.
- Abscess Formation – Infection leading to the formation of pus.
Procedure of Root Canal Treatment:
- Examination and X-ray – The dentist examines the tooth and may take an X-ray to assess the extent of the infection.
- Anesthesia – Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth.
- Access Opening – The dentist makes a small opening on the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
- Removal of Pulp – The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed from the tooth using special instruments.
- Cleaning and Shaping – The root canals are cleaned, disinfected, and shaped for filling.
- Filling the Canals – The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, to seal the space.
- Sealing the Tooth – A temporary or permanent filling is placed on top to protect the tooth.
- Crown Placement (Optional) – If necessary, a crown may be placed over the tooth to restore its full function and appearance.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment:
- Pain Relief – Eliminates the cause of pain due to infection.
- Prevents Tooth Extraction – Helps preserve the natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction.
- Stops Infection Spread – Prevents the infection from spreading to other parts of the mouth and body.
- Restores Functionality – Allows the tooth to function normally again after the procedure.
- Improves Oral Health – Reduces risks of further complications, like jawbone degeneration.
Root Canal Treatment is a crucial procedure to save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected, offering relief and restoring oral health.