A root canal is the fine passage within a tooth’s root that provides the fleshy center of a tooth with blood flow. The middle consists of a hollow area that is full of a pulp-like tissue.
This region must be healthy if the rest of the tooth is going to remain so, as well. When the exterior of teeth are exposed to decay and plaque for an extended period of time, the enamel is worn down fairly rapidly.
As soon as this happens, the rest of the tooth is left unprotected, because the enamel is unable to cover the sensitive regions that are more likely to be affected. The process increases the number of cavities, as well as the degrees of sensitivity experienced.
When the damage has become extensive and has reached deep within, it is often necessary for a dentist to perform a root canal on the patient. This is done through a specific method involving many steps.
The dentist first drills and removes the decaying tissue and pulp. They then use a specific device to clean out the hollow chamber.
The root canal is also cleared of any damage or tissue that may be obstructing it. The tissue that is located in between the tooth and gum often must be cleaned and examined as well, just in case it has received some damage or decay.
When this process is completed, the dentist uses an endofile to get rid of infection within the canal. This empty chamber is then filled with rubber filler and a covered with a crown, usually porcelain.
If you experience any infection to the inner tooth, it must be taken care of immediately, because it is most often very painful and pretty serious. Those that notice a lot of pain in the gums or have an intense toothache should make sure to schedule an appointment with the dentist immediately
If you catch the problem early enough, it will prevent the infection from spreading to other areas of the mouth; you will also be at less of a risk of losing one or more teeth. Untreated infections within the gums can turn into a small pocket of bacteria called an abscess.
This problem is extremely painful and can be detrimental to overall health. Root canals area always performed through the use of a numbing agent, like anesthesia; therefore, you will not feel any of it.
Those that are nervous should ask their dentist about the procedure itself and what they can expect. They are usually pretty minor and, if you are treated properly with antibiotics and pain medication, you should make it through very easily with little pain and a very short recovery time.
Root canals have a very high rate of success, and once you have had one performed, you should not experience anymore pain at the site. The process has become very refined and routine.
However, it is best to avoid needing one of these procedures by taking care of your teeth beforehand. Make sure that you follow oral hygiene direction accurately to rid your mouth of bacteria and infection.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once. Your smile will stay clean and bright, because bacteria and plaque will have less of a chance of settling in between your teeth and gums.
Fluoride rinse is also extremely important when it comes to killing germs and keeping up on oral hygiene. This substance helps give enamel strength and hardness, which will prevent pain and cavities from plaque build-up.
If at all possible, try cleaning your mouth after every meal; it will help clear out food and keep it from settling into crevices to decay. Those that do not have access to a toothbrush and paste throughout the day can gargle with water.
If food stays on your teeth, it may develop into bacteria. They, in turn, develop into plaque and infection that cause decay and the need for root canal procedures.
Everyone should get a professional cleaning twice a year from a professional. The doctor will also be able to give you x-rays and let you know if there are any other more serious problems at hand that must be fixed or adjusted.
Understanding the method of performing a root canal should help you feel more at ease when you go in to have one performed. Your dentist will be able to help you feel comfortable and well taken care of. .