Step-by-step Guide to the Root Canal Procedure

root canal Marietta, OH

Your tooth is severely damaged but can be saved, so your dentist recommends a root canal. You do not like getting a procedure without knowing what to expect. You want to know exactly what happens during a root canal. Learn the steps so that you will be prepared for your procedure.

Steps of a root canal procedure

A root canal procedure is relatively simple. The dentist needs to clean out the infected pulp and fill the canals. Patients usually need a temporary crown after the procedure. Go over each of the steps.

Preparing the area

The dentist begins by numbing the area. Injections are used to send the numbing agent into the gums and the tooth’s root. Once the area is numbed, the dentist places a dental dam in the mouth. This isolates the tooth that needs the root canal by covering the rest of the teeth in the mouth.

Accessing and cleaning the roots

Next, the dentist drills through the tooth to access the root canals and pulp chamber. The dentist uses instruments to clean out the pulp chamber and root canals. An antibacterial and antiseptic solution is used to clean and disinfect the canals. This eliminates the bacteria and treats the infection located in the canals.

Shaping the canals

The dentist must place a filling in the root canals. First, the canals must be shaped. The dentist will use tiny instruments to shape the canals, so they will be ready to receive the filling material. Once shaped, the canals are cleaned a second time.

Filling the canals

The dentist will use gutta-percha to fill the canals. This rubber-like material is placed inside the canals and then heated. The dentist compresses it, so it fits snuggly against the walls. The dentist adds adhesive cement to further seal the canals. Properly sealed canals keep bacteria out.

Filling to the access hole

The dentist must also seal the hole made to access the canals. The filling prevents bacteria from entering the tooth. The dentist also might need to place a post in a canal to strengthen the tooth. This is only necessary if the tooth is severely damaged and cannot support a restoration on its own.

Healing and antibiotics

The dentist might send the patient home with a prescription for antibiotics. The medication kills the rest of the infection. The patient will also have post-care instructions. It is normal to experience some discomfort for a few days after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain medications usually alleviate the discomfort.

Adding the crown

If the root canal was on the back tooth or the tooth has significant damage, the patient will need to come back for a crown. The crown is placed around the treated tooth and adds strength and stability. The permanent crown is fabricated to match the existing teeth. Once placed, the tooth can handle the forces of chewing once again.

Do you need a root canal?

If you need a root canal, it is important to act quickly, so your dentist can save the tooth. Your dentist will prepare the area, access the canal and clean it. Then, the dentist will shape the canal, fill it and then fill the access hole. You will need to go home to heal and then you will come back, so the dentist can add the crown.

Are you considering a root canal in the Marietta area? Get more information at https://www.mytotaldentistry.com.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Can Root Canal Treatment Save Teeth?

Root canal therapy is a routine procedure often recommended by a patient's dentist to treat infected teeth. Your tooth consists of various components that preserve its function. The root canal is the hollow section of your tooth that contains blood vessels, nerve tissue, and other cells, called the pulp. Your pulp nourishes your tooth and…

3 Signs Your Tooth May Need A Root Canal

You may dread the thought of having a root canal, but it may be necessary. A filling or composite bonding might address minor or moderate cavities. However, if you are experiencing severe, consistent pain in your teeth, these treatments may not be enough to restore the affected tooth. Endodontic treatment is a method where your…

Why Dental X-Rays Are Important In The Root Canal Procedure

When you think about a root canal, you may have thoughts of pain, discomfort, and a generally unpleasant experience. Of all the dental procedures, this one has one of the most infamous reputations. However, your dentist has the training, knowledge, and tools to correct significant decay and restore your oral health. To diagnose a tooth…

Important Information About Root Canal Therapy

A root canal is a procedure that can save severely damaged or decayed teeth, prevent infection, and treat active infections. The process involves removing the pulp in the tooth’s pulp chamber and disinfecting the area. It often takes less than an hour from start to finish.The pulp chamber of a tooth is the central chamber…

Recent Posts

Is Invisalign For Teens An Alternative To Braces?

Is Invisalign For Teens An Alternative To Braces?

Invisalign® for Teens is a viable option for some dental patients but not all. Your child's dentist will consider certain factors, such as how crooked the child's teeth are. If your teenager is a candidate for Invisalign, you can weigh the pros and cons of aligners and traditional braces to decide which works with your…

How Endodontic Procedures Can Improve Your Oral Health

How Endodontic Procedures Can Improve Your Oral Health

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on studying, diagnosing, and treating problems affecting teeth pulp. The most commonly performed endodontic treatment used in dentistry is the root canal, and it allows dentists to save teeth that have severe damage or decay.Root canal treatments are often the last defense when saving a tooth. A…