Endodontics - Root Canal Therapy
The tooth is not a solid object, but rather has a space in its center. Each tooth has a soft tissue (the pulp) in this space. This tissue partially nourishes the tooth from the inside. Because of deep decay, injury, or gum disease, multiple restorations the tissue in your tooth can become inflamed or infected (diseased). The pulp within the tooth is totally encased within hard tissue, the body cannot get to it in order to affect repair. Therefore, it is the role of the dentist to do what the body is unable to do.
The root canal treatment procedure begins with an intra-oral X-ray, which shows the extent of tooth decay or the rounded black spot at the end of the roots indicating a decrease in the density of bone due to infection. After local anesthesia to the concerned tooth, access is gained to the nerve area by a dental drill and a hole is made which leads to pulp chamber. Cleaning the tooth out to remove bacteria, degenerated nerve and debris is then done using RC files. These files are a series of increasing diameter used with a twisting motion as well as up and down in tooth to scrape and scrub sides of canals. The dentist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, then fills and seals the space. Afterwards, he will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect it and restore it to full.
You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored by your dentist, because it could fracture. Otherwise, just practice good oral hygiene - brushing, flossing and regular checkups and cleanings. Endodontically treated teeth can last for many years, even a lifetime.
Different steps in Root Canal Therapy :
Step1 : After the tooth is anesthetized, an opening is made through the crown into the pulp chamber
Step 2 : After the tooth is anesthetized, an opening is made through the crown into the pulp chamber
Step 3 : Unhealthy pulp is removed. Canals are cleaned, enlarged and shaped.
Step 4 : Canals are filled and sealed. A metal post may be added for structural support or to retain restorative materials
Step 5 : The tooth is sealed with a temporary filling. Usually a crown adds further protection.
