Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure performed to treat and save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. It involves the removal of the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth, followed by cleaning, disinfection, and filling of the root canals.
Here is a breakdown of the steps involved in root canal treatment:
Examination and X-rays: The dentist will conduct a thorough examination of the tooth to determine if a root canal is necessary. X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of damage and determine the shape and length of the root canals.
Administration of anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth. This ensures that the patient doesn’t experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
Isolation: A rubber dam is placed over the tooth to isolate the treatment area, keeping it dry and free from saliva and other contaminants. This also helps in preventing the spread of bacteria from the mouth to the treated tooth.
Access to the pulp chamber: The dentist creates a small access hole in the tooth, typically through the biting surface for molars or the backside of the tooth for front teeth. This allows direct access to the pulp chamber and root canals.
Removal of infected or damaged pulp: Using specialized dental instruments, the dentist carefully removes the infected or inflamed pulp from the tooth’s pulp chamber and root canals. The canals are then shaped and prepared to receive a filling material.
Cleaning and disinfection: The dentist thoroughly cleans and disinfects the root canals using irrigation solutions to ensure that all bacteria and debris are eliminated.
Filling the canals: Once the canals are cleaned and disinfected, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha is placed into the canals using a sealer to seal them and prevent reinfection.
Temporary filling: After filling the canals, a temporary filling or a crown is placed on top of the access hole to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration can be placed.
Permanent restoration: In most cases, a dental crown is recommended to protect and restore the treated