Did your dentist just prescribe you a root canal treatment? If so, you must be having a lot of questions ranging from why you need it to how painful the procedure might be. Root canal treatment, also commonly referred to as a root canal, involves the removal of the dead or inflamed pulp tissue followed by filling with a specified material. The tooth is mainly composed of a hard outer layer called enamel. Underlying the enamel is a second relatively less hard layer called dentin. The innermost living soft tissue that is present in the center is the pulp. The pulp has blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue and is mostly responsible for tooth sensations. What Causes You To Need A Root Canal? A root canal is commonly performed to get rid of the infected and inflamed pulp tissue. The infection could have resulted due to a cracked or damaged tooth or a deep cavity that was left untreated. The pulp then becomes inflamed and contaminated with bacteria leading to severe sensitivity and pain. In a few instances, your dentist might even recommend a root canal despite there being no pain. This usually happens when there is a long-standing cavity and infection that has resulted in the contaminated dead pulp. However, it still needs to be removed to avoid complications and the spread of infection.

Signs And Symptoms The commonly encountered symptoms that can indicate the need for a root canal treatment are as follows: -Long-standing pain that doesn’t go away -Sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweets -Swollen gums or jaw usually occurs when pus is formed due to the infected pulp, which needs to be drained immediately and treated to avoid further spread and complications -The infected tooth appears discolored and darker -The tooth feels loose due to the buildup of pus all around -Sensitivity to pressure -Occasionally, a pimple can be seen above the infected tooth that shows the site of pus drainage How Long Does A Root Canal Take? Contrary to the past, root canal treatment is now a relatively pain-free and quick procedure that can be performed in a single or multiple visits according to the tooth conditions and the dentist’s preference. On average, it takes 30 to 40 minutes for the procedure. However, the treatment of large teeth with multiple roots like molars can take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes. How To Prepare For A Root Canal Based on the extent of the infection, your doctor may have prescribed you antibiotics that should be taken as advised. Avoid hard foods like nuts that can get stuck in the cavity and worsen the pain. Eat a healthy meal before the procedure. The Root Canal Procedure The procedure starts with an assessment of the involved tooth and numbing of the area by using local anesthesia. In case of anxiety, your doctor may use adjunctive medications like nitrous oxide and sedatives to relax you. After the medications, a rubber sheet is placed to isolate the tooth. This is called a dental dam, and placement is quick. This isolation is necessary to maintain a sterile environment during the procedure. The dentist then removes the affected tooth structure and gains access to the pulp cavity by using a bur and a handpiece. Specific tiny instruments called files are then used to remove the entire pulp and dead tissues. The root canals are then shaped using endodontic files. This shaping removes any residual remains of the pulp and makes the filling of the canals easier. The canals are disinfected and dried before filling. Some doctors then place a temporary filling and conclude the first visit at this point. The filling of canals is done on the next visit to access the procedure outcome. In a single visit procedure, the canals are measured, sealed, and filled with specific material to avoid future contaminations. Depending on the treatment plan, your doctor will then place a temporary or permanent filling in the tooth. Most of the time, a restoration like a crown is placed on top of the treated tooth to protect its structure. This usually occurs on the subsequent visit. Maintaining good oral hygiene is imperative for a successful outcome. Benefits of Root Canal treatment: A timely performed root canal saves you from pain and future complications. The following advantages can be achieved: -Prevent the spread of infection -Get rid of the symptoms of the infected tooth -Reduced risk of damage to surrounding teeth and jaw bones -Can save the tooth from extraction

Success Rate Of A Root Canal Procedure The procedure has a high success rate of up to 98%. However, failures have also been reported. The alternative treatment after a failure is probably tooth removal only. The success ratio of a repeat endodontic procedure is less, so it is best to extract the tooth and replace it with other available options like implants and bridges. Some of the common symptoms of a failed root canal are as follows: -Pain that stays even after a few days of the treatment -Swollen gums -Tooth color changes -Boil or pimple on the gums -Abscess formation Commonly Asked Questions In this article, we will answer some commonly encountered questions regarding the root canal procedure. -Does The Procedure Hurt? Contrary to popular belief, there is no pain during or after the treatment if profound anesthesia is given and the pulp is completely removed. However, slight discomfort is a fairly common report. But in case you have severe throbbing pain after the procedure, you should immediately inform the operating doctor. -Are You Put To Sleep For A Root Canal? Local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues. The jaw feels numb, but you are fully awake. Anxious patients or uncooperative children are given adjunctive sedation. In rare instances, general anesthesia can be given in highly uncooperative and anxious patients who require multiple dental procedures. -Who Performs A Root Canal? A root canal can be performed by a general dentist or a root canal specialist called an endodontist, depending on the severity and complications. -Can I Eat Immediately After A Root Canal? It is best to avoid eating until the numbness wears off to avoid accidental tongue and cheek biting. If you have a temporary filling placed, avoid eating from the concerned side until a permanent restoration is placed.