Root canal therapy is a dental treatment that is performed to save a tooth that has become infected or inflamed in the pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth. It is a common procedure that has a high success rate and can help prevent the need for tooth extraction. In this article, we will explain what root canal therapy is, why it is necessary, and what to expect during the procedure.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure that is performed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as deep decay, a cracked or broken tooth, repeated dental procedures, or trauma to the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and infection. If left untreated, it can lead to an abscess, which is a collection of pus that can cause damage to the bone surrounding the tooth.
During root canal therapy, the infected or inflamed pulp is removed from the tooth, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. The procedure is typically performed by a Professional Dentists Chapel Hill NC, who is a dental specialist trained in performing root canal therapy.
Why is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
Root canal therapy is necessary to save a tooth that has become infected or inflamed in the pulp. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other teeth or even to other parts of the body. In addition, the infection can cause significant pain and discomfort, which can impact a person’s quality of life.
In some cases, a tooth that requires root canal therapy may not have any visible symptoms. However, a dentist can detect the infection or inflammation through a dental exam or an x-ray. If a tooth requires root canal therapy, it is important to have the procedure done as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before the root canal therapy procedure, the dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth using a local anesthetic. This will help to minimize any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
The dentist will then create a small hole in the top of the tooth to access the pulp. They will use special tools to remove the infected or inflamed pulp from the tooth. Once the pulp has been removed, the inside of the tooth will be cleaned and disinfected. The dentist will then fill the inside of the tooth with a material called gutta-percha and seal the tooth with a filling or crown to prevent further infection.
After the procedure, it is common to experience some mild pain or discomfort for a few days. The dentist may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage the pain. It is important to follow the dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.
Conclusion
Root canal therapy is a common dental procedure that can help save a tooth that has become infected or inflamed in the pulp. It is necessary to prevent the spread of infection and to alleviate pain and discomfort. During the procedure, the infected or inflamed pulp is removed from the tooth, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. With proper aftercare, the tooth can be saved and can function normally for many years. If you are experiencing dental pain or suspect you may need root canal therapy, consult the Goodridge Family Dentistry to determine the best course of treatment.