Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures, with over 15 million performed each year!
The first step in the root canal process is a thorough examination of the affected tooth and surrounding area. This usually involves taking X-rays to get a clear picture of the extent of the damage and the exact location of the infection. Dr. Chiem will use these images to plan the best approach for the procedure.
Once the examination is complete, the area around the tooth is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Dr. Chiem then makes a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected pulp is carefully removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned.
After the tooth has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, it's time to fill and seal it. A rubber-like material called gutta-percha is used to fill the empty pulp chamber and root canals. The opening in the tooth is then sealed with a temporary filling to protect it from contamination.
One of the main benefits of root canal therapy is pain relief. The procedure effectively eliminates the pain caused by severe tooth decay or infection. While the process itself might seem daunting, most patients report that it's no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Modern anesthetics and techniques have made the procedure virtually painless, and most patients experience immediate relief from their previous tooth pain after treatment.
Root canal therapy allows for the preservation of the natural tooth. This is preferable to extraction, as keeping your natural tooth helps to prevent other teeth from shifting out of place and causing further problems. It also means you won't have to deal with the cost and inconvenience of tooth replacement options. Additionally, a treated and restored tooth can last a lifetime with proper care and regular dental check-ups.
By removing the infected pulp, root canal therapy stops the spread of infection in your mouth. This is crucial, as untreated dental infections can lead to more serious health issues, including abscesses and systemic infections. Left unchecked, dental infections can even affect other parts of the body, including the heart, so treating the infection promptly through root canal therapy helps maintain overall health and well-being.
Despite popular belief, root canal therapy doesn't cause pain, it relieves it!
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