A root canal is the most commonly performed endodontic procedure. It involves treating problems within the tooth's soft core, also known as the dental pulp. The dental pulp is the soft tissue found inside the tooth; it extends from the top of the tooth all the way down to the end of the root. It contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue that provide nutrients to the tooth as it grows.
As a tooth grows, the pulp provides nourishment and helps the tooth develop properly. Once the tooth is fully functioning, its nerve is not vital to the tooth's ability to function, or to providing it with sensory functions such as detecting the sensation of hot or cold. As a result, the nerve and surrounding tissue can be removed from the tooth to repair and save the tooth from an infected pulp. The mature tooth will be able to survive without the pulp.
Damaged Pulp
The pulp is most commonly damaged by an untreated cavity that allows bacteria to eat through the enamel of the tooth and, eventually, infect the pulp. The pulp can also be damaged by trauma that cuts off the tooth's blood supply, and causes the pulp tissue to die. Although the pulp is no longer needed to supply fully developed teeth with nutrients, it will gradually decay if left damaged within the tooth.
If left untreated, an infection may build up within the root tip and form an abscess that can damage the bone around the teeth, causing pain and creating the potential for permanent damage.
Symptoms of Damaged Pulp
Patients with damaged pulp may experience the following symptoms:
- Severe toothache
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Discoloration
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Recurring pimple on the gums
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, the dental pulp may be infected. Getting prompt treatment helps relieve symptoms and prevent permanent damage.
The Root Canal Procedure
A root canal is usually performed in a series of office visits, first to remove the diseased pulp, and then to clean and seal the tooth to prevent further damage.
During the first visit, we make an opening in the tooth leading into the pulp chamber and remove the damaged pulp. The canals of the root are cleaned and shaped to prepare them for a filling material. A temporary filling is placed in the opening to protect the tooth between appointments. We may also prescribe medication to control infection and promote healing.
At the next appointment, the temporary filling is removed, and the pulp chamber and root canals are thoroughly cleaned and filled. The pulp chamber is usually filled with a biocompatible, rubber-like material called gutta-percha, which is cemented to the tooth with a sealer paste. The final step is to restore the tooth with a crown, post or other restorative device.
Although many patients think of root canals as being painful and uncomfortable, that is usually not the case. Local anesthesia is used to numb the affected area, although it may not be needed because the nerve tissue is dead. However, anesthesia often helps patients relax.
Results of Root Canal
Root canal is considered a highly successful treatment, with most patients experiencing complete relief from their symptoms. A crown or filling can usually repair the appearance of the treated tooth so that other people will not even realize that a root canal was performed.
The results of a root canal procedure can be permanent, as long as you practice healthy oral hygiene and visit the dentist on a regular basis.
