A root canal procedure is a type of dental treatment in which they remove the infected or decayed pulp in the root of a tooth to prevent the spread of an infection and preserve the long-term health of the tooth. It is helpful to understand the process dentists use during a root canal procedure to mentally and physically prepare before treatment.
Although dentists tailor the treatment process specifically for each patient, there are common steps during a root canal procedure that patients can expect. In most instances, patients can expect four steps during the process, which include the consultation visit, the procedure that involves removal of the infected pulp, cleaning and sealing the tooth and applying the dental crown.
The first step in the treatment process is a consultation visit. Patients who have signs of a tooth infection should visit the dentist to see if a root canal procedure is necessary. These symptoms include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold foods and gum complications. During the first visit, the dentist will discuss the symptoms with the patient and conduct an oral examination to determine the severity of the concern and what treatment options are available. The dentist may also order dental X-rays on the first visit if additional testing is needed.
If a follow-up visit is scheduled for a root canal procedure, then the dentist will likely start by numbing the tooth to minimize discomfort during treatment. They will then carefully access the root of the tooth where the infection is present. Using either small dental tools or laser dentistry, the dentist will then remove the infected, decayed or damaged pulp material in the root of the tooth.
After removing all of the problematic dental pulp, the dentist will then clean the affected area and fill the tooth. This ensures the tooth is not vulnerable to other concerns in the future and allows the tooth to fill and function in a more normal manner. After sealing the tooth, the dentist will take a dental impression and place a temporary crown while the permanent crown is created.
Most root canal procedures require a dental crown to ensure the tooth is properly protected from further damage. The dental crown will take some time to create, and the patient will wear a temporary crown while they wait. Once the permanent crown is ready, the patient will have a follow-up visit for the placement of the permanent crown. The dentist will also provide aftercare instructions to help the patient care for their crown long term.
You can learn more about how a root canal procedure works by contacting our experienced and professional dental professionals today. We are happy to address your questions and concerns and explain all available treatment options so that you can make the most informed decision.
Are you considering a root canal in the Woburn area? Get more information at https://dentistwoburnma.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal in Woburn, MA.
When the subject of a root canal comes up, people often imagine an unbearable dental procedure that requires a relatively long recovery period. Endodontists perform a root canal when there is an issue such as infection or inflammation, which could cause tooth decay, cracked teeth or continuous treatment of the affected areas. Undergoing a root…
A root canal is a restorative procedure that can save a tooth from severe infection. If you are experiencing extreme pain in your mouth, you may need this treatment. This is no process to dread despite what you have heard about it. Your dentist will take great care to make you feel at ease. Do…
If a dentist says that you need root canal treatment, you might panic because of all the rumors you have heard about the procedure. There is a mistaken notion about dental procedures, especially when it comes to root canals. Most people think this procedure is painful and scary.However, this is not true. If you are…
When people think of emergency dentistry, a root canal is not often the first word that comes to mind. Chipping a tooth, maybe, or maybe some oral trauma happened due to a car wreck — but a root canal? That advanced procedure is something that is taken care of during a regular dentist appointment, right?…
It's safe to say that you may have a dental filling if you are reading this. Having a cavity filled is one of the top reasons a patient goes to the dentist. A filling is necessary once the tooth enamel begins to break down. A filling will stop the cavity from spreading or getting any…
Dental restorative procedures like implant supported dentures can be a solution to partial or complete teeth loss. No one wants to lose a tooth, but you may experience it due to situations beyond control. In addition to transforming your smile, the procedure can boost your self-esteem and have your teeth functioning fully in no time.An…