Root Canal treatment intends to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection and save the natural tooth. The tooth has a hard layer called dentin beneath the white enamel. The dentin is a soft tissue called the pulp. This tissue contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue during its development. A fully formed tooth can survive without the pulp because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it.

During the root canal treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp inside the tooth is removed, carefully cleaned, and disinfected. The tooth is then filled with a medicated material and sealed. A root canal helps in saving the tooth and is relatively painless and effective.

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What happens if you don’t get a root canal?

If the infected tooth is not treated, the infection can escalate to other parts of the body, and in some cases, even be life-threatening. It may also necessitate tooth extraction.

Does a root canal hurt?

A root canal is performed under anesthesia; it isn’t more painful than a regular dental procedure, such as removing a wisdom tooth or a filling. However, you can feel a bit sore or numb after the procedure. It may even cause you mild discomfort for a few days.

How do you know if you need a root canal?

There are a few symptoms in which you may require a root canal.

  • A deep cavity.
  • Deep decay or darkening of the gums.
  • A cracked or chipped tooth.
  • Pimples on the gums.
  • When there is severe pain while chewing or biting.
  • There is a lingering sensitivity to hot or cold in the mouth.
  • The gums are swollen or tender.

What is the procedure for a root canal?

The dentist examines the infected tooth and takes a radiograph of the tooth using x-rays. The patient is then administered a local anesthetic. After the tooth is numb, a protective sheet called a ‘dental dam’ is placed over the infected area to isolate the tooth, to keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure.

A hole is made in the crown of the tooth. A small instrument is used to clean the pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals to shape the filling space. Once space is cleaned and shaped, the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material. The sealing of the root canals is completed using adhesive cement. In most cases, a temporary filling is placed to close the opening. The filling is later removed before the tooth is restored after the treatment. After a few days gap, you must return to your dentist to have a crown placed on the tooth to protect and restore it to its full function.

What are the advantages of getting a root canal?

  • A toothache from a severe cavity can be excruciatingly painful. A person with a toothache may not even be able to function normally. A root canal will relieve you of all the pain and discomfort.
  • A root canal will save you from having to lose a tooth due to infections or diseases. This procedure helps you to salvage the tooth and enjoy its function in the mouth.
  • Though the tooth will no longer be vital, it will remain in the mouth.
  • If a missing tooth is not replaced, a lot of changes may occur in the mouth. The teeth may drift and shift, causing gaps between the teeth. Your ability to bite and chew food might get affected.

To know more aboutRoot Canal Treatment, call Dentist Aurora CO at (303) 680-6000 or book an appointment with our experienced dentist now. We will be happy to assist you.