WHAT IS ROOT CANAL TREATMENT?
Root canal treatment, also known as root canal therapy, is one of several endodontic procedures that are performed to save a damaged or diseased natural tooth. Inside your tooth, beneath the white enamel, is a soft tissue called pulp. Pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed – often due to a deep cavity or filling, a cracked tooth, or a traumatic injury to the tooth — treatment becomes necessary in order to save the tooth.
Without proper treatment, it can lead to an infection or dental abscess and can even contribute to systemic problems throughout other parts of the body.
What does root canal treatment involve?
Performed by an endodontist, root canal treatment is a procedure that commonly involves local anesthesia for your comfort. However, you will be offered additional sedation dentistry options if you prefer, such as nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. After sedation has been administered, the steps will involve:
- A thin sheet of latex rubber is placed over your tooth to keep it dry, then an opening is made through the crown of the tooth into the pulp chamber.
- The pulp is removed from the chamber and the root canal (the space inside the root). The root canal is cleaned and shaped so it can be filled.
- Your endodontist may place medicine in the pulp chamber and root canal in order to remove bacteria.
- The root canal is filled, typically with a rubber-like material in order to seal it.
- A temporary filling is placed in the tooth to prevent contamination of the canal. You will then return home with the temporary filling in place. An appointment will be set for your restorative dentist to remove the temporary filling and restore the tooth with a crown.
- After restoration, the tooth should function and look like your other teeth – and you’ll be able to enjoy whatever food you like again without any pain.
What are the benefits of root canal treatment?
In addition to saving your natural tooth, the procedure provides several other benefits, including:
- Helps to mitigate problems caused by having your tooth removed — such as other teeth shifting, which can lead to difficulties in chewing and in your bite.
- Helps avoid the need for bridgework or dental implants.
- Prevents the loss of bone structure from the area of a missing tooth.
- Saves time and money in the future from having to undergo more complex treatments.
- Relieves pain and helps restore your overall health and well-being.
Is root canal treatment painful?
While root canal treatment has historically been synonymous with an uncomfortable and painful experience, the fact is that advanced technology and sedation dentistry have made the procedure as easy and comfortable as getting a regular filling!
Contact Upper East Side Endodontists in NYC today!
For the best-of-the-best in root canal treatment and endodontic care for all ages, contact Upper East Side Endodontists in NYC, where the root of our practice is unsurpassed care, compassion and comfort!