A root canal is one of the most feared dental procedures. If you need to undergo root canal therapy, you may feel anxious about what to expect during the entire process. The fact is, it does not cause much pain, and many patients have reported feeling completely at ease with their root canal treatments. 

Root Canal Treatment

Root canals also referred to as endodontic treatment, involve the removal of dental pulp from the inner chambers of the tooth roots. The pulp comprises soft connective tissue, tooth nerves, and blood vessels. Most of the time, patients require a dental crown after the root canal treatment to strengthen and protect the tooth. 

Why You Need a Root Canal

A root canal treatment is advised when the pain in the tooth becomes unbearable. The reason behind the pain is a severe infection caused due to tooth decay or trauma. It may result in an abscess that, if left treated, can spread to other parts of the body, causing other serious ailments. 

A root canal treatment can help prevent tooth extraction. A missing tooth can cause misalignments, which may require further dental treatments. On the other hand, the tooth can be restored with a root canal and prevent the complications associated with a missing tooth. 

A chipped or broken tooth may require a root canal since it can expose a nerve that may cause severe pain. There are also instances when frequent dental work or fillings require a root canal process. 

How a Root Canal Works

Our dentist will first capture an X-ray of the affected tooth to ensure the need for the root canal procedure. When confirmed, we will administer a local anesthetic to make you comfortable, and if necessary, sedation will be given to help you relax. 

When you are entirely numb, a dental dam will be placed over the mouth, which will separate the affected tooth and prevent any fragments from entering the mouth. 

Then we will remove the decay and clean the tooth's core that contains the dental pulp and nerve tissues. When all infected matter has been removed, the inside of the tooth will be disinfected and packed with a medicated material called gutta-percha. Finally, the tooth will be sealed with a filling material.

After the Procedure

After the root canal treatment, it is pretty normal to feel some soreness, and it will subside within a few days. We will prescribe antibiotics and painkillers to minimize the swelling and infection. 

To learn more about root canal treatments, visit the Midtown Dental office at 750 George Washington Way, Richland, WA, Suite 1 99352. You can also reach us at (509) 946-1678.