Root Canal (Endodontic) Treatment
Dental Caries (decay) if left untreated, a large cavity will result that will extend to the pulp chamber. Before now, such teeth would probably be removed. Today with special dental procedure called root canal or endodontic treatment you may save the tooth.
A tooth has three layers; enamel, dentine and the pulp which contains the nutrients, nerves and the blood supply to the tooth. When the pulp is diseased or injured the pulp tissue dies. If this diseased pulp is not removed the tooth gets infected and you could lose it.
With the root canal the dentist removes the pulp and the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. A crown is then placed over the tooth to help make it stronger. Today root canal treatment has given us safe way of saving teeth.
WhyYou Need Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment (RCT) is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected the most common reasons for inflammation or infection are deep cavities or decay, repeated dental procedures, cracked or fractured teeth. Trauma can also cause inflammation and often shows up as discoloration of the tooth. If the pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
Signs and Symptoms
- Severe throbbing toothache
- Prolonged sensitivity to heat and cold
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Swelling or pain of the tooth or gum
- Fracture or crack of the tooth
- Pain or tenderness on masticating or biting
Will You Feel Pain During And After The Procedure?
Pain is the main reason for patients to seek treatment. Thanks to modern anesthetic. The procedure is almost painless in most cases. Seeking treatment early makes the procedure more comfortable; so do not wait as a stitch in time saves nines.
For the first few days after treatment there may be some sensitivity when biting pressure is applied especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. To forestall the residual painful experiences, medications may be recommended but are rarely required.