Root Canal Treatment (RCT)
A root canal is a treatment to save a badly damaged or infected tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged or cracked area of the tooth, removing the nerve inside the root, cleaning and disinfecting it and then filling and sealing it.
If tooth left untreated then infection can spread into surrounding the tissue and cause abscess and swelling.
Eventually tooth has to be extracted.
The Common Causes of RCT
What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure?
A root canal treatment may require one visit or may need two separate visits.
The dentist uses local anesthesia to numb the tooth. Generally, a small sheet of rubber (rubber dam) is used to isolate the tooth.
Small opening is made inside the tooth and all damaged or dead nerve is removed, inside of the root is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected with antimicrobial solution and dried and it is sealed with inert material called as guttapercha. After that, permanent or temporary filling is placed on the tooth.
Your dentist will then use very small tools, such as a small drill, to access the inside of the tooth by creating an opening in the top portion of the tooth. Next, the dentist will use small files to clear away the damaged and diseased pulp from the inside of the tooth. They will also use the files to shape the inner chamber of the tooth and root and might irrigate the chamber with water to wash away any remaining pulp. Your dentist might also put an antimicrobial solution in the chamber to kill any remaining bacteria and reduce the risk for further infection.
After a root canal treatment, teeth commonly become brittle, as nerve has been removed from the tooth. Therefore, it is imperative to crown or cap the tooth.