Hi, I’m Dr. Taranov, and today I’d like to tell you about root canal treatment at our Wilmington practice. Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is an important procedure for saving teeth that might otherwise be lost due to infection or damage.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure designed to remove infected or damaged tooth pulp, which is located inside the root canal. The pulp is made up of nerves and blood vessels, and when it becomes inflamed or infected, the patient may experience severe pain and discomfort. If left untreated, such an infection can lead to an abscess and tooth loss.
Why is root canal treatment necessary?
There are several reasons why root canal treatment may be necessary:
Decay. When decay penetrates deep into the tooth, it can reach the pulp and cause an infection.
Damage to the tooth. An injury or crack in the tooth can cause inflammation or infection of the pulp.
Repeated dental procedures. Multiple procedures on the same tooth can damage the pulp.
Deep fillings. Deep fillings that are close to the pulp can cause irritation and inflammation.
What is the procedure for root canal treatment?
The root canal treatment procedure involves several steps:
- Diagnosis and preparation. During this step, we take x-rays to assess the condition of the root canal and determine the extent of the damage. We then administer local anesthesia so that the patient does not experience pain during the procedure.
- Access to the pulp. To access the infected pulp, we make a small hole in the tooth.
- Removing the pulp. Using special instruments, we remove the damaged or infected pulp from the root canal.
- Cleaning and disinfection. After pulp removal, the root canal is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to prevent further infection.
- Root canal filling. After cleaning, the root canal is filled with a biocompatible material that prevents re-infection.
- Tooth Restoration. Finally, the hole in the tooth is closed with a temporary or permanent filling. In some cases, a crown may need to be placed to further protect and restore the tooth’s function.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment has many benefits:
- Tooth preservation. The main benefit is the ability to preserve the natural tooth and avoid tooth extraction.
- Pain relief. Once the infected pulp is removed, pain and discomfort are greatly reduced.
- Aesthetics. Preserving your own tooth avoids the need for implants or bridges.
- Functionality. The preserved tooth continues to perform its functions, which is important for proper chewing and diction.
Myths and reality about root canal treatment
There are many myths about root canal treatment that can cause patients to fear and doubt.
Let’s debunk some of them:
- Root canal treatment is painful. Thanks to modern anesthesia techniques and advanced technology, the root canal treatment procedure is virtually painless. Most patients report minimal discomfort.
- The tooth will be weak after treatment. After proper treatment and crown placement, the tooth is strong and can last for many years.
- It is better to extract a tooth than to have root canal treatment. Preserving your own tooth is always preferable, as it helps maintain the natural structure of your jaw and avoids the additional cost of implants.
How do I prepare for root canal treatment?
Before undergoing root canal treatment, it is important to follow a few guidelines:
- Discuss all questions with your doctor. If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to discuss them with your dentist.
- Follow instructions. Your dentist may give you specific instructions before the procedure, such as taking antibiotics or avoiding food a few hours before your visit.
- Be prepared for recovery. After the procedure, it may take a few days to fully recover. During this time, it is recommended that you avoid chewing on the side where the treatment was performed and follow your dental care recommendations.
Tooth care after root canal treatment
After root canal treatment, it is important to follow tooth care recommendations to prevent re-infection and ensure long-lasting results:
- Maintain oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent bacteria buildup.
- Avoid hard foods. In the first few days after the procedure, avoid chewing hard foods to avoid damaging your tooth.
- Visit the dentist regularly. Regular visits to the dentist can help you monitor your dental health and detect possible problems early.
Root canal treatment in Wilmington is an important procedure to help save your teeth and avoid serious complications. At our Wilmington practice, we utilize state-of-the-art technology and techniques to provide the most comfortable and effective treatment for our patients.
