A root canal, or endodontic procedure, is performed when the pulp chamber inside the tooth becomes inflamed and infected. The pulp chamber contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue that is vital to the growth of a healthy tooth. A fully developed tooth does not need the pulp to survive, but if the pulp becomes inflamed and infected, it can lead to swelling and pressure inside the tooth causing acute pain. If the infected pulp is not removed, then the tooth can suffer irreversible damage and the infection can spread to the gum tissue and jawbone.
Endodontic treatment can be accomplished in one or two appointments, and the treatment is not as bad as it is usually depicted in the media. The dentist will numb the tooth with local anesthesia, then they will place a rubber dam over the tooth to keep a latex sheet around the tooth in place. This keeps the tooth clean and dry for the procedure. The dentist will then go inside the tooth, remove the infected pulp from the canal and pulp chamber, replace the pulp with a rubber-like material called gutta percha and then seal the tooth.
Some of the causes of tooth pulp inflammation and infection include severe tooth decay, a crack or chip in the tooth, a fracture in the root canal and gum disease. In addition to regularly brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day, it is important to make regularly scheduled visits to your dentist where they can examine your teeth to make sure everything is OK. If you experience acute pain or any other issues with your teeth, then you should see your dentist right away.
Sources:
What is a root canal?. www.medicinenet.com
A Step-By-Step Guide To Root Canal Treatment. www.deardoctor.com
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