Most general dentists follow a similar step-by-step process for root canal therapy. This is a procedure that treats decayed or infected teeth, particularly teeth that are not able to be restored through less invasive treatment methods. Often, root canal therapy is necessary to prevent tooth loss.
The root canal therapy process is relatively simple for licensed and experienced general dentists and safe for patients. This guide offers insights into the step-by-step process that many general dentists use to complete root canal therapy safely and in the least invasive manner possible.
The general dentist can provide a numbing agent to the tooth before they begin the procedure. This ensures that the patient feels as little discomfort as possible during root canal therapy. In fact, many patients report not feeling any more pain during root canal therapy than during a dental filling, although the recovery process may be more extensive.
Once the area of the mouth that is being operated on is numb, the dentist starts by drilling a small hole into the tooth to access the pulp chamber. They then remove the infected pulp or decayed portion of the tooth carefully using either dental instruments or a dental laser.
Once all the decayed or infected parts of the tooth root are removed, the next step is to clean and disinfect the tooth root. This ensures that the infection is completely removed and that there are no setbacks after the root canal procedure. This step in the process should not cause any discomfort.
The next step in the process is to fill the cavity left by the decay, infection or as a result of the root canal procedure. The material used to fill the tooth is known as gutta-percha, a healthy and safe option that will last for many years.
After the tooth is filled with gutta-percha, the treatment is essentially complete. However, there are aftercare tips that the patient must follow to prevent oral infection and to keep the pain at a tolerable level. This may include using an ice pack, eating soft foods, drinking water throughout the day, practicing good oral hygiene and taking pain relief medication.
Many patients require a dental crown to protect the tooth from harm in the long term. The dental crown can be made with tooth-colored material so it closely resembles the appearance of natural teeth. This also ensures the ideal function of the tooth while eating and offers cosmetic benefits.
We are here to help you through the root canal procedure if you need to restore the health, function and appearance of one or more of your teeth. Give us a call today to find out how we can help you.
Are you considering root canal therapy in the Lone Tree area? Get more information at https://southdenverendodontics.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Lone Tree, CO.
Root canal treatment can effectively save an infected or otherwise compromised tooth. However, there are cases in which root canal retreatment is necessary to address complications or reinfections that arise after an initial root canal. Every patient should know several things about root canal retreatment, its benefits, and how to prepare for the procedure.Root canal…
Regardless of the severity, a cracked tooth requires immediate professional treatment. While minor cracks may only need treatment options like dental bonding, tooth extraction is necessary for severely damaged teeth. However, an endodontist can consider various options that other professionals may not offer. An endodontist usually treats cracked teeth that are too damaged for minor…
Root canal surgery, otherwise referred to as an apicoectomy, is performed by a dentist, endodontist or oral surgeon after the pulp located inside of a tooth’s root becomes infected. Infected tooth pulp can be a serious concern that causes pain and sensitivity in the patient and can worsen if left untreated.By fully understanding what root…
When dental patients are in need of a root canal, they may be referred to an endodontist for the procedure. Most patients receive this treatment in a timely manner, usually within a week or two of the last visit. However, there are situations where root canal treatment is more pressing and should be completed as…
Every patient should know several things about root canal retreatment, its benefits, and how to…
Call our team today to learn how an endodontist can help repair cracked teeth.
Learn about root canal surgery, and determine whether it is right for you. Root canal…
In many cases, an endodontist will schedule a root canal treatment within a few days…
Stubborn dental pain is one of the clear signs one may need root canal therapy.
Once a break in a tooth occurs, it is 100% necessary to avoid foods that…
