What Happens During a Root Canal

A root canal is a procedure for the treatment of a tooth that is severely damaged or infected. The process includes cleaning and repairing the affected tooth, removing the nerves and the pulp, and then sealing the infected tooth. If left untreated, pus will surround the infected tooth, which is much more dangerous. Removing the nerves in the tooth does not affect the day to day activity of a person, because its only function is for sensory – providing sensation for hot and cold. The tooth pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the root canal, needs to be removed in this case because it will break down and may cause bacteria to build up within the tooth. If this happens, it can result in an abscessed tooth, wherein pus will begin to fill the end root of your tooth. Aside from developing an abscess, an infected tooth may also result in a swollen face, neck or cheek. Bone loss at the root of your tooth can also occur. A tooth’s nerve can become damaged, irritated, or infected due to a host of different trauma to the mouth. Signs that you need a root canal may not always be obvious to you. However, these signs should set off your alarm bells.

• Serious tooth pain while chewing
• Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold
• Tooth discoloration
• Swelling of the gums
• Pimple on the gums

A root canal can entail one or two dental visits, and can be done by either a dentist or an endodontist. Endodontists specialize in working with dental pulp and tooth nerves. This naturally includes diagnosis and treatment of disease of tooth nerves. Your choice of dentist will depend on how serious your infection is and the procedure that it requires. Usually, the first step for root canal therapy is an x-ray to see the root of your tooth, and if there is an infection already present. The dentist may or may not give you anesthesia, depending on your tooth’s nerves. A rubber dam will then be placed on your tooth to keep it dry and prevent the build up of saliva during the procedure. The dentist will make a hole in your tooth to remove the bacteria, pulp, nerves and other debris. It will then be cleaned after the procedure and sealed as the final step.