The dentist in Green Valley, AZ, and their team of pulp specialists have expertise in innovative dental procedures like root canal therapy. These are advanced and extensive treatments that help restore a severely decayed tooth involving the pulp.
Read on to explore everything about root canal therapy, indications, procedures, and aftercare.
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy (RCT) is the most widely used dental restoration procedure to remove inflamed or infected pulp on the inside of the tooth. The pulp is the center portion of the tooth that contains nerves, connective tissues, and blood vessels.
The canals are then carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a biocompatible material.
RCT is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canals, preventing reinfection of the tooth and saving the natural tooth. RCT relieves pain eliminating the need for extractions.
When is root canal therapy indicated?
Your doctor may recommend root canals for the following reasons:
- Severe tooth pain while chewing or biting
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Tooth discoloration
- Deep dental decay
- Trauma to the tooth
- Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold, even after removing the stimuli
- Swollen and tender gums
- Darkening of the gums
How is root canal therapy performed?
Root canal therapy is a safe procedure that can be performed in one to two appointments.
The steps are as follows:
- Your doctor will isolate the tooth to be treated and numb the area with local anesthesia
- Using ultrasonic instruments, your dentist will remove the decay and debris from the tooth surface.
- An access opening will be made to expose the infected pulp and remove it completely.
- The root canals will be cleaned to flush out the bacteria and debris. Ultrasonic files will help prepare the canals and later be filled with gutta-percha. This seals your tooth and prevents re-infection.
- During your next week, once the RC-treated tooth heals, your dentist will prepare the tooth for impressions.
- These impressions will be sent to the lab for the fabrication of a crown.
- Once the crown is ready, you will call for the final crown cementation.
- Your dentist will check the crown fit, and the bite making necessary corrections if required.
What does post-root canal therapy aftercare involve?
Post root canal therapy it is normal to experience mild swelling and discomfort around the treated tooth. Your dentist will advise the following instructions for the initial few days for quick recovery:
- Avoid eating hard food substances
- Avoid extremely hot or cold things since you may experience an increased sensitivity
- Rest and take your pain medications and antibiotics as directed
Root canal therapies are excellent alternatives to extraction. These dental procedures retain the natural tooth structure thereby restoring the oral form, function, and aesthetics.