Root Canal Treatment

Root Canal Treatment

What is root canal treatment ?

• Root canal treatment is the procedure involving the dental pulp of the tooth

Why is root canal treatment required ?

• Damage of the dental pulp allows the bacteria to infect the pulp more further , which causes server pain , swelling and abscess of that particular tooth.
• The infection spreads through the pulp to the root tip and into the surrounding jaw bones.

What are the causes of dental pulp damage ?

• Deep tooth decay
• Trauma to teeth
• Leakage around old/exciting cavity fillings
• Very large cavity fillings
• Excessive wear on the teeth
• Cracks in the teeth

How is the root canal treatment performed ?

• Tooth is anesthetized after which the tooth decay is removed
• Access into the pulp is gained via a small hole drilled from the top of the tooth
• Infected or damaged pulp is removed from inside of the tooth using small dental files
• Length of the root canals are determined through x-rays
• Root canals are cleaned , disinfected and shaped in such a form that can be completely sealed
• Tooth root is sealed with filling material to prevent re-infection.
• Metal post may be required in some case for the support
• Crown (prosthesis) is placed to protect the root treated tooth

Post root canal instructions

• Do not eat till the anaesthesia wears off ( consumption of liquid is permitted )
• Take pain killer tablets if required
• Do not eat from the treated tooth for next 48 hours
• Tooth will be sensitive to chewing for approx 5 to 6 days

Care and maintenance after root canal treatment ?

• Gum disease , dental decay and crown / root fracture are common cause of failure
• Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups will ensure a long lasting solution
• Root canal procedures have a very good prognosis