What Is Endodontic Treatment?

Endodontic treatment is the term used for the root canal procedure. A root canal professional conducts this procedure when the tooth’s roots are infected or inflamed. The procedure relieves the pain people feel from the inflamed or infected roots. It also allows patients to save their teeth. Get details about this treatment.

Endodontic treatment procedure

During the root canal procedure, the root canal professional removes dead or dying tissue and bacteria from the root of the tooth. People typically require a dental crown to protect the tooth after the procedure. The root canal process typically requires two appointments. Go through the step-by-step process.

Preparing for the procedure

Endodontic treatment is not painful. To ensure the patient’s comfort, the dentist begins by numbing the tooth. Then, the dentist must isolate the tooth. The dentist places a small rubber sheet around the tooth to isolate it. This prevents saliva from reaching the tooth.

Cleaning the root canals

The dentist must drill through the tooth to access the root canals. Then, the dentist removes the pulp that is damaged and diseased. The dentist uses a file to reshape the tooth’s roots and inner chamber. If some pulp remains, the dentist will flush it with water.

Also, the dentist might place an antimicrobial solution in the tooth’s chamber. The solution will kill any bacteria that has been left behind. This is not always necessary. If the tooth is not infected, this solution might not be necessary.

Filling the chamber

After removing the pulp, the dentist must refill the chamber. The dentist will fill it with gutta percha or another rubbery material. The dentist will place a temporary filling on the tooth to close the hole that the drill created. The temporary filling requires special care. Patients should avoid putting much stress on it and should not consume sticky foods.

Fitting the permanent crown

A dental laboratory will fabricate the permanent crown. It normally takes two to three weeks to get the permanent crown back from the laboratory. The patient will come back in and get the permanent crown fitted. The temporary filling is removed and the new crown is cemented in place.

Caring for the restored tooth

Once the permanent crown is in place, patients need to protect it. People who have bruxism need mouthguards to protect the crown from grinding forces. Also, people must brush and floss the crown and natural teeth each day. When flossing, people should slide the floss out instead of pulling it up.

Getting endodontic treatment

If you need endodontic treatment, a root canal professional can provide the service for you. The professional will numb your tooth and clean the root canals. Then, your dentist will fill the chamber and place a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it. You will come back to the dentist’s office in two to three weeks to get your permanent crown. Take special care of your permanent crown so it will last decades.

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