Root canal is a therapeutic procedure that works to
relieve dental pain from a damaged or infected tooth and effectively save the
tooth from further damage or infection. Left untreated, your damaged tooth can
cause more pain and even escalate to an abscessed tooth, which could take a lot
longer to remedy, even with root canal treatment. Your dentist will typically
prescribe a root
canal treatment when
infection or inflammation is evident in the roots of the tooth.
During root canal, your Dentist gets to work by
carefully drilling into the tooth so as to gain access to the infected pulp.
This infected pulp will have to be removed and the inside of the tooth, cleaned
and disinfected before the root canals are shaped and then sealed with a dental
filling. To understand the procedure further, you must know a thing or two
about the tooth’s anatomy.
Inside of your tooth is a soft tissue known as the
pulp. This can be found right under the tooth’s enamel and the hard layer known
as dentin. This soft tissue pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, along with
connective tissue, which provides sensation to the tooth. The main function of
the pulp, however, is to provide the necessary nourishment that the tooth needs
while developing. When a tooth is fully developed, the pulp doesn’t have much
use except for enabling sensation to the tooth. This is why an infected pulp
can safely and effectively remove from inside the tooth when infection occurs.
A root canal treatment is the first resort of dentists
when trying to save a tooth. Any well-meaning dentist will prescribe you the
procedure if they deem your tooth saveable. Infection to the tooth’s pulp
occurs due to deep decay or repeated dental procedures on the particular tooth.
A crack in the tooth or even a small chip could likewise lead to an infection,
when left untreated. Injury to a tooth may also cause pulp damage even when
there isn’t any visible cracks or chips on the tooth. Some common signs that
you may need root canal treatment include prolonged sensitivity, pain, or
tenderness to the touch or when chewing. Swelling, and discolouration of the
tooth, as well as tenderness in nearby gum tissues, bone, or lymph nodes are
also signs to watch out for.
About the Author:
Grace Maddison (Dental Nurse) at Dr. Sheetal Sachdeva B.D.S. Dental Surgeon
has a vast experience in oral or dental health. She has been working with Dr.
Sachdeva for 11 years and according to her, Dr. Sachdeva listens and responds
to the patient's dental problems very carefully. He is an experienced dentist
who is an expert in the field of dental health and can deliver effectively and
treat your needs. Dr. Sheetal Sachdeva B.D.S. Dental Surgeon is a family dental
practice with special interest in Implantology, Endodontics, Cosmetic Dentistry
CAD-CAM Digital and Orthodontics.
