A root canal removes the interior living tissues of a tooth in order to combat infection or address damage. While it is not a dentist’s first choice, it can be necessary when no other options will save the tooth. If you are scheduled for a root canal, you may have heard that this procedure causes pain or discomfort, but this is just a myth! In fact, patients who are experiencing pain due to a tooth infection can experience immediate relief after a root canal.
If patients feel uneasy about a root canal, one of the most helpful things that they can do to assuage this anxiety is to understand how the procedure works. Coming in prepared can ease fear and boost confidence.
Before a root canal is scheduled, the dentist will examine the problematic tooth and determine whether other options, such as fillings or crowns, are viable. The goal is always to preserve as much of the living tooth as possible, but some issues are only treatable with root canals. Once the dentist determines that this procedure is the most suitable one, the patient will schedule a separate appointment to have it done.
At the root canal appointment, the dentist will first prepare the patient using sedatives or pain management medication. Then, they will prepare the tooth. Typically, this involves isolating it from the rest of the mouth using a plastic shield and placing gauze near the salivary glands to reduce moisture. Once the tooth is clean and dry, the root canal can begin.
The dentist will use a small drill similar to the one used for cavities. By gently drilling into the vulnerable part of the tooth, the dentist can access the pulp chamber, which is the innermost part of the tooth.
Inside the pulp chamber are blood vessels and nerves supplying the tooth and relaying information back to the brain. If these tissues are compromised, they need to be removed, which the dentist will do using a specialized tool built specifically for this purpose. They will insert the tool through the gap created by the dental drill, remove the pulp contents, and then thoroughly clean the now-empty inside of the tooth.
Once the pulp chamber is empty and clean, the dentist can fill it with a material called gutta-percha. This prevents the tooth from being hollow, which could cause it to become brittle.
Then, the dentist seals the entry point with a filling, just as if it were a cavity. They smooth the filling so it fits seamlessly with the rest of the tooth, and the procedure is complete.
If you need a root canal, you should schedule the procedure as soon as possible so the problem does not have the opportunity to worsen. Contact our office to schedule your root canal. We will keep you comfortable and informed throughout the process!
Request an appointment here: https://www.rfdsmile.com or call Rohrbach Family Dentistry at (610) 323-6086 for an appointment in our Pottstown office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal in Pottstown, PA.
When a tooth needs a root canal, it is usually because of either a deep cavity, a break, a crack, or a chip that has gone through the hard protective enamel of the tooth. Under the enamel is a softer tissue called dentin and then under the dentin in the center of the tooth is…
Many emergency dentistry situations require dental extractions. Removing the problematic tooth can improve your dental health. It can even prevent further complications.If patients want to know the importance of dental extractions during an emergency dental treatment, here are the details.A dental fracture can happen if the patient bites down hard enough to crack the lower…
A good emergency dentistry professional can provide immediate treatment for your displaced tooth. This type of dental emergency is often caused by trauma, and it is common among adolescents and children. If you want to know how an emergency dentistry professional can save your displaced tooth, here are the details.Tooth displacement is also called dental…
Restorative treatments encompass a broad range of dental procedures designed to help patients recover oral health and self-esteem via improved aesthetics. Patients who have suffered oral damage due to tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma might benefit from restorative therapy. Visiting the emergency dentistry office as soon as possible is advisable to restore oral health…
Dental veneers are quick and easy restorations. These thin shells can cover the front part of the teeth. Dental damage and discoloration can go away. You can even gain more strength from this extra layer of protection. Knowing which one can fit you the most can help you decide with your dentist on consultation day.…
Dental veneers are often more advantageous than other cosmetic dental procedures. Some cosmetic dental procedures are quick but need retreatment. Others need preparation and months to be effective. Veneers take a short time to get but can last for at least a decade with proper care and maintenance. Knowing the benefits of these restorations over…