What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that is used to treat an infection or inflammation in the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels). The tooth is composed of three layers: the visible white enamel, the underlying dentin, and the soft pulp containing nerves and blood vessels that help the teeth to grow. Once the tooth is fully formed, the pulp becomes unnecessary as the surrounding tissues provide nourishment.
Sometimes, the pulp may become inflamed due to bacterial infection, requiring a root canal procedure to remove the infected pulp. After the removal of the interior of the tooth further infection is treated, filled, and sealed to preserve the tooth and maintain a healthy smile. Root canals in Glenview can save a damaged or infected tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
What are the steps in root canal treatment?
The steps involved in a root canal treatment are as follows:
- Cleaning – The first step in the root canal process is to use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. A particular instrument is used to remove the infected or damaged pulp tissue and shape the canals.
- Filling – After the root canal is cleaned and shaped by the dentist, then this is the time to fill the gap with the rubber-like material known as gutta-percha. The material seals the canals and prevents bacteria from entering the tooth again.
- Adding a crown or filling – The tooth is weakened after the root canal treatment and it may require additional support to prevent it from breaking. Now, the dentist will suggest placing a crown over the tooth according to the extent of the damage. This will help in protecting and strengthening the tooth. Sometimes, if the damage is minor then the crown is not essential and the filling is sufficient to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
How painful is root canal treatment?
A root canal is painful but with modern techniques and trained professionals, it can be relatively painless. Root canal treatment helps in alleviating the pain that is caused by the infection in the tooth and the gums. The anesthesia numbs the area around the teeth to make the procedure more tolerable than before that it used to be. After the procedure is completed, the patient may feel some discomfort for a few days.
This is manageable by the prescribed medication or antibiotics by the dentist. Delaying or avoiding root canal treatment can result in more severe pain and complications. So it is suggested that one should not avoid it and address any dental issues promptly. Root Canal Treatment Glenview is a safe and effective way to treat an infected or damaged tooth and relieve pain and discomfort.
Who needs root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is considered for individuals who are suffering from –
- Deep decay
- Trauma
- Repeated dental procedures
- Gum disease
- Toothache
What does root canal treatment cost?
The cost of root canal treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the tooth, the severity of the infection or damage, and the dentist’s fees. In general, root canal treatment is more expensive than a routine dental filling or cleaning, but it is often less expensive than a tooth extraction or other more extensive dental procedures. The cost of a root canal treatment includes diagnostic tests, anesthesia, root canal therapy, and dental restoration. The Glenview dentist also provides services like teeth whitening, veneers, and dental implants.
What are the Complications of Root Canal treatment?
Some potential complications that may arise after the root canal treatment are –
- Infection – Sometimes, the bacteria may enter the tooth after the root canal treatment and cause a new infection. For this, additional treatment, such as antibiotics or a second root canal procedure.
- Nerve damage – The nerve that supplies the sensation to the tooth may get damaged because of the root canal treatment.
- Tooth fracture – The tooth is weakened after the root canal treatment and is more prone to fracturing. This can occur if the tooth is subjected to excessive force, such as biting on hard foods or objects.
- Incomplete treatment – If the infected or damaged pulp tissue is not completely removed during the root canal treatment then the infection may persist and cause further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissue.
- Allergic reactions – The material used in the root canal treatment can cause some people to cause an allergic reaction such as the local anesthetic or filling material.
Conclusion –
Glenlake Dental Care provides root canal treatment as part of their dental services. Dentist Glenview IL suggests practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding hard or sticky foods, wearing a mouthguard, addressing dental problems promptly, and considering fluoride treatments.
