A root canal treatment is a procedure designed to repair a tooth that has been infected. Although the causes of the “root canal” vary, they often start the same way with an injured tooth. The fracture or damage on a tooth pulp leads to a breakdown, and bacteria multiply within the pulp chamber and form pus. If you fracture your tooth, you may need to seek the help of a dentist before the “root canal” is damaged to the point where you start to experience swelling around the areas of the neck and face. Here is a step-by-step guide of the root canal treatment process:
 

Assessment and Anesthetic

Since the root canal is performed by your dentist, you need to go for a dental X-ray to determine the extent of the damage – one or two visits should be enough. This allows the dentist to have a clear picture of the root canal and helps your dentist determine how to carry out the procedure.
 

After this, the dentist administers an anesthetic that numbs your infected tooth and the gum that surrounds it, but in severe cases where the tooth is not sensitive anymore, it might not be a requirement to use an anesthetic. Your dentist will use a small drill to open the top portion of your tooth trying to get to the pulp chamber.
 

Removing the Pulp

A dental dam is then put in your mouth to keep the tooth dry during the operation and prevent you from swallowing any chemicals used. Your dentist will proceed to remove any infected pulp within the pulp chamber. After this, your dentist will flush and clean the root canals to deal with the pus-filled swelling or dental abscess, if any in the pulp chamber. But in a case where there was severe damage to the tooth, medication is put into the pulp chamber to clear any infection and you might be required to visit your dentist multiple times for observation.
 

Sealing the Tooth

A temporal filling may be placed on the pulp chamber if you require multiple visits to your dentist. This filling prevents debris and saliva from coming into contact with the pulp chamber. You should avoid chewing with that tooth in between those visits. But if it is not severe, your dentist will use a sealer paste and rubber compound to fill the pulp chamber preventing it from reinfection and breakdown.
 

Placing a Permanent Crown

Finally, your tooth will need a permanent restoration to seal its top. This is because your tooth ends up with a large filling and it needs protection from future damage. Your dentist will get a realistic, artificial crown usually made of porcelain or gold. Sometimes, the dentist is forced to mold your tooth to ensure the crown fits right. Cement is then added to the crown to glue it to the tooth. It is advisable to avoid eating with your tooth for the first few days after your root canal treatment because it may be very sensitive.
 

It can be very painful once you find out that you need a root canal treatment. Worry not because, at Riverview Dental, we can replace your infected pulp in your pulp chamber the appropriate way. You can contact us at 989-743-4851 or visit our clinic in Corunna, Michigan for a consultation.