Root Canal Treatment

ROOT CANAL TREATMENT (RCT)

What is root canal treatment?

On the occasion when teeth been affected by cavities, trauma or fractures, resulting in irreversible inflammation or necrosis of the dental pulp, root canal treatment is necessary to remove the inflamed or infected nerve and any contaminants within the dental pulp. We will clean thoroughly clean the root canal mechanically and chemically. Prior to the development of root canal treatment, teeth with inflamed or infected dental pulp often faced extraction as the only solution.With root canal treatment, we can preserve natural teeth whenever possible as the last line of defence. Many people think root canal procedures cause pain, but they actually stop the pain with little to no discomfort during therapy. So don’t let a common myth stop you from getting the benefits of root canals at BestSmile Dental

When do you need root canal treatment?

Common situations that may require root canal treatment include severe tooth decay, traumatic injury, and tooth erosion. Even small cracks that are not visible to the naked eye can lead to damage of the dental pulp. Signs that indicate damage to the dental pulp include persistent pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, tooth discoloration, and swollen gums.

However, there are cases where dental pulp damage may not have obvious symptoms. If left untreated, the pain may persist or occur intermittently, leading to gum inflammation and abscess formation. In such cases, it is recommended to promptly seek root canal treatment.

If the nerve inflammation is not promptly addressed, it can lead to bacterial infection, causing dental pulp necrosis, decay, and the development of pus in the surrounding tissues. It may even result in the onset of cellulitis. Timely treatment can prevent worsening of the condition and the eventual extraction of the tooth.

What happens if you don't undergo root canal treatment for a toothache?

Is it painful to do root canal treatment?

During the treatment process, local anesthesia may be administered to the patient as deemed necessary. Apart from the mild discomfort experienced during the administration of anesthesia, there is usually minimal intense pain throughout the procedure. At the end of each session, the patient will be provided with post-treatment instructions, and their condition will be monitored for the following three days. If necessary, medication will be prescribed for the patient. It is important to note that delaying treatment due to fear of dental visits can exacerbate tooth pain.

For patients who undergo root canal treatment due to tooth decay, the severity of tooth erosion is typically significant. Some patients may have a strong biting force in their daily activities, making the treated tooth prone to fractures if not adequately protected. Additionally, the color of the tooth after root canal treatment may differ from that of the surrounding natural teeth. To address these issues, dentists often recommend the placement of an appropriate restoration, such as a crown or veneer, to ensure that the treated tooth can continue to carry out its functions (aesthetics, chewing, speaking, etc.) within the oral cavity. While the treated tooth may not fully regain its pre-disease condition, it can still function properly. Remember, diligent oral hygiene, proper usage of the restoration, and regular follow-up visits are crucial for maintaining oral health.