When it comes to dental treatments, root canal is one of the most misunderstood amongst them. There is a perception among people that root canal generally involves a very painful and invasive procedure for treating a rotten tooth. However, it is the best option for saving an ailing tooth with pain relief. Thanks to developments in dental technology and anaesthesia, root canal procedures today are safer, faster, and more pleasant than ever before. Here’s what the procedure includes.

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

But before the what to expect explanation, its important to understand what a root canal is. It is required when the soft inner tissue (pulp) of the tooth is infected or inflamed. This can be caused by:

• Pulp affected by deep decay
• A single tooth having undergone multiple dental treatments
• Chipped or cracked tooth
• Pulp being damaged by unexplainable trauma

An infected pulp left untreated can result in severe pain, swelling, and even cause abscesses, which is a threat to overall oral health. A root canal removes the infection while leaving the tooth's structure intact.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Not all toothaches need a root canal, but some signs point towards possible damage to the pulp:

• Recurring or severe toothache triggered by eating or drinking
• Sensitivity to hot and cold foods that remains even after stimulus removal
• Swelling or tenderness in gums around one tooth
• Tooth discoloration or darkening
• Pimples or abscesses on the gums close to the affected tooth

The Root Canal Procedure: Step by Step

Having a basic understanding of root canal can help in reducing the stress and fear associated with the procedure. The treatment is often done in one or two appointments, depending on the extent of the infection.

Step 1: Area is numbed

Your dentist will first apply a local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and the gums surrounding the tooth before proceeding with the treatment. This helps make the treatment as pain-free as possible.

Step 2: Getting to the pulp

An opening is made in the tooth to access the infected or inflamed pulp. This enables the dentist to thoroughly clean out the damaged pulp.

Step 3: Canal cleaning and shaping

After the pulp is extracted, the internal canals of the tooth are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to receive the filling.

Step 4: Root canal filling

The cleaned canals are then filled with a biocompatible substance, like gutta-percha, to seal out bacteria from entering the tooth again.

Step 5: Tooth sealing

A temporary or final filling is then placed to cover the tooth. A crown is often advised later to reinforce the tooth's strength and beauty.

How Long Does a Root Canal Take?

The time a root canal takes varies depending on the intricacy of the tooth to be treated.

Front teeth (single root): Done in a single, one-hour appointment.

Molars (multiple roots): Generally done in two appointments, which may last for more than an hour.

A follow-up might be required if a crown is placed permanently for further protection.

Post-Treatment: Aftercare

A well-performed root canal will last for many years as long as proper oral hygiene is maintained. During the procedure, the following happens:

• Brief, mild pain lasting a couple of days that diminishes slowly
• Sudden sensitivity upon biting down, particularly if a temporary filling was put in
• Tenderness of the gum surrounding the area treated
• Swelling (rare), but possible with severe infection

If you're experiencing excessive pain or swelling after a root canal, you should contact your dentist immediately.

Care for a Tooth That Has Undergone a Root Canal

Post-treatment proper care allows the treated tooth to stay healthy and functional for many years. Following are some vital post-treatment tips:

• Practice good oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing
• Refrain from chewing hard or sticky foods on the treated tooth until fully restored
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritation
• Continue regular dental check-ups to track the tooth's status

If a dental crown has been prescribed, be sure to have it installed as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the tooth.

Saving Your Tooth, Saving Your Smile

A root canal is an exceptionally effective procedure that not only destroys pain but serves to save your natural tooth as well. While the idea of having one can be daunting, the actual procedure is simple and far less uncomfortable than most assume. With subsequent care, a treated tooth should work like any other for many years to follow.

If you're having recurring toothaches or suspect infection, it is important to seek professional guidance. Dr. Deepak Victor, a reliable dentist in Chennai, can evaluate your situation and provide professional treatment to repair your smile.