Root Canal

WHAT IS ROOT CANAL TREATMENT?

The outer portion or Crown of a tooth is a three-layered structure namely :-Enamel, Dentin & Pulp. If the tooth decay is limited to the first two layers it can be corrected with Filling or Restoration. In case the tooth decay reaches the third layer and causes inflammation or infection of pulp then an RCT or Endodontic Treatment is needed.

Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is also known as Endodontic Treatment. It is a procedure done when the tooth decay reaches the pulp the innermost layer of the tooth and causing inflammation. It is necessary to save the damaged tooth from extraction and this procedure is done by an Endodontist who is also known as a Root Canal Specialist.

This procedure involves:-

Removal the material of inflamed or infected tooth
Cleaning and disinfection of tooth
Filling and sealing with an inert material in tooth
Restoration and crown or cap

It is a multi step procedure and may require multiple sittings with multiple appointments.

SYMPTOMS

The most common symptom that one might need in Root canal treatment is a toothache. The pain can reach from mild to severe. With the time it may get worse, and you will feel the pain even when you start chewing your food.
The other reason is sensitivity. If you feel sensations in your tooth while consuming something hot or cold then there is the chance that one needs to undergo Root Canal Treatment.
Swelling in gums can also be a sign that you need to go under Root Canal Treatment.

PROCEDURE FOR ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

Step 1:

The very first step is an X-ray which is taken to determine the extent and approach to infection. If required a local anesthesia is administered before starting the treatment.

Step 2:

The next step is Cavity Preparation. A cavity is prepared, all the infected tooth material or previous filling material is removed, and a proper approach for the inner-part of the tooth which is also called as pulp is established.

Step 3:

This is followed by disinfection and shaping of pulp canals. The infected pulp is cleared out completely and canals are shaped and cleaned.

Step 4:

Cleaning the tooth and disinfected canals and then sealed and filled with an inert rubber -like material known as Gutta Perca.

Step 5:

The very last step is restoration and crown. The crown portion of the tooth cavity is then restored with a filling and followed by a Cap or Crown cementation.

TREATMENT FOR ROOT CANAL

Do not put pressures on tooth, there is no crown or the tooth is unprotected as a result putting pressure can cause damage to the tooth.
Avoid hard and crunchy food instead chew soft and light food until final restoration
Be careful while brushing and do not be too harsh and fast while brushing
Get a dental crown as soon as possible as this will protect your tooth from further damage