A root canal is a procedure used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed, infected, or damaged due to trauma. At Mega Dental, the process involves removing the affected pulp of the tooth and replacing it with filling material. Without treatment, the affected tooth will likely need to be removed to prevent the infection from spreading.
After the tooth is treated with a root canal, it must be protected with a dental crown to prevent future damage. The crown will be custom-made for the patient, making it more comfortable and natural looking than other types of crowns.
When Would a Root Canal Be Required?
- Deep Tooth Decay
If tooth decay reaches a tooth's pulp, it can cause infection and inflammation. Root canal treatment is often necessary to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth.
- Dental Trauma
Teeth injured or fractured due to trauma may require a root canal if the pulp is damaged. Also, trauma can expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to infection and the need for treatment.
- Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth occurs when the infection spreads from the pulp to the surrounding tissues and forms a pocket of pus. Root canal therapy is typically performed to remove the infection and prevent further complications.
The Procedure for Root Canals
The tooth and surrounding area are numbed using a local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free procedure. A small access hole is then drilled into the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals. The infected or damaged pulp is then carefully removed using specialized tools. Then, the root canals are cleaned, shaped, and irrigated to remove any remaining infected tissue and bacteria. This helps prevent further infection and promotes healing.
Next, the cleaned root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the canals and prevents recontamination. The access hole is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.
The tooth is usually weakened after the root canal procedure and may require a dental crown or filling to restore its strength, function, and appearance. The crown or filling is custom-made and placed on the treated tooth.
The Benefits of Root canal treatment
- Pain Relief
Root canals are often performed to alleviate tooth pain caused by an infection or inflammation of the dental pulp. The procedure removes the source of pain and promotes healing.
- Tooth Preservation
The patient can maintain proper chewing ability, speech, and overall oral function by saving the natural tooth through a root canal. It also helps preserve the natural appearance of the smile.
- Infection Control
Root canal treatment removes the infected or damaged pulp and eliminates bacteria from the tooth's root canals. This prevents the spread of infection to other teeth or surrounding tissues.
You must see our Dentist in Richmond, TX promptly if you have severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or gum abscess. He will evaluate your dental condition and determine if a root canal is necessary to save the tooth and restore oral health. For the best dental care tailored to your needs, visit Mega Dental at 10510 FM 1464 Suite 100, Richmond, TX 77407, or call (832) 930-7723.