Root Canal

About the Procedure

A root canal is a surgical procedure designed to save highly infected or decayed teeth from having to be extracted. One of the most common misconceptions regarding this procedure is that it is highly painful. In reality, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia and does not necessarily result in pain. The pain usually associated with the procedure is due to the fact that patients who have opted to have one may be suffering from an abscess of the tooth. Such an abscess contains acids and bacteria that render anesthetics inert. But in most cases where the root canal is performed before the tooth is that far gone, there is little to no discomfort during the procedure.

The objective of the procedure is to remove all infected or infection prone soft tissue inside the tooth. This includes the nerve and the pulp. Past childhood, these substances actually have no bearing on the functionality of the teeth and so, removing them does not compromise tooth strength in any way.

First a local anesthetic is administered to the area surrounding the tooth. Then a drill is used to gain access to the tooth interior. Within each root of the tooth are hollow canals that house the pulp and the nerve. Using a combination of fine drill heads and long, narrow files, the surgeon breaks down and removes all soft tissue from each of the root canals while thoroughly cleaning the canal walls. Once that is done, medication may be placed in the canals to help prevent further infection. Finally, the canals are totally filled in with a synthetic compound called gutta-percha and the drill hole is filled in and sealed off.

In some cases, depending upon how much damage the tooth has previously sustained, a cap or crown may be put into place to further strengthen the tooth.

What to Know Before the Procedure

The greater purpose of a root canal is to prevent whatever infection is in the tooth from spreading to the gums and other parts of the mouth. The surest way to achieve that end is to simply remove the tooth. However, the loss of a tooth brings a whole different set of complications with it and as such is usually a last resort. However, depending upon the current condition of the tooth, the root canal may not prevent infection from spreading to the gums. It is important that you discuss your options with your doctor.

What to Know After the Procedure

It is normal for a patient to experience discomfort and sensitivity in the tooth where the procedure was performed for several days afterwards. As over the counter pain relievers are sufficient to deal with this level of discomfort, pain medications are not typically prescribed following a root canal. In some cases, your doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics to ensure no further infection attacks the tooth.

Patients undergoing a root canal are urged to maintain normal oral hygiene standards immediately following their procedure.

If you Need to Travel Outside of your Local Hospital

Most dentists are qualified to perform a root canal, though depending on how advanced the damage is, it may be beneficial to have it performed by an endodontist. Endodontists specialize in the interior workings of the teeth and are the most qualified individuals to perform a root canal particularly if the tooth is in an advanced state of decay or abscess. While their fees will be higher, they may have a better chance of saving your tooth than a regular dentist. As the procedure does not create any travel issues, it is best to travel to the most qualified individual you can find, whether they are located locally or abroad.