The question “What is a root canal?” educes a variety of answers and reactions. These responses are often due to a misunderstanding about:
- What a root canal is
- Why a root canal is required
- And how a root canal can be prevented with good oral care habits.
How Does Decay Start?
A root canal is necessary to help treat tooth decay. The tooth becomes infected, or abscessed, once the decay goes past the enamel and progresses to the dentin, or the layer underneath the enamel. Finally, decay reaches the nerve structure of the tooth, which is called pulp.
At this point, the inflammation that has been caused by the decay in the tooth is irreversible. The nerve structure of the tooth starts to die. As this happens, chemicals are released that can cause an infection at the tip of the root, unfortunately leading to pain and swelling.
This is generally the point at which the toothache becomes noticeable and painful. The patient will usually seek a local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist who can assist with relieving the pain and treat the tooth with root canal therapy.
Because a root canal procedure is unique and has to be performed correctly, patients should take select a Dentist In Rancho Cucamonga who has experience and expertise in root canals.
Who Performs Root Canals?
According to the American Association of Endodontists, a root canal may be performed by a general dentist or by an endodontist. An endodontist is a Rancho Cucamonga Dentist who has received training and specializes in care of the inside of the tooth.
A general Rancho Cucamonga Dentist usually decides on a per-case basis whether to perform a root canal or to refer the patient to an endodontist.
What Happens During A Root Canal Procedure?
During a root canal, the tooth is anesthetized in the same manner as when a cavity is filled. The anesthetization means that the root canal process ought to be pain free. The decay, the inflamed and infected pulp and any other nerve tissue located in the tooth’s roots are removed, and the tooth is prepared to be filled.
The filling material is a rubbery substance called gutta-percha. It’s role is to be a sealant which completely blocks the whole root structure and prevents oral fluids from reaching the tooth and reinfecting the tooth’s internal structure.
Although the origins and nerve chamber are sealed by the process, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist say the tooth remains greatly weakened and takes a core buildup and crown to protect its remaining walls. The filling core and crown act as a protective cover. They protect the tooth from further damage and aid in restoring chewing function.
Occasionally, if the decay or infection is minor, a crown is not required. In this instance, a core buildup is all that is necessary as a final restoration. Now, generally depending on the extent of the damage and on the Rancho Cucamonga Dentist performing the treatment, the root canal may take one or more visits.
When the complete root canal and final restoration have been finished, the general Rancho Cucamonga Dentist or endodontist will typically schedule a follow-up visit after 6 months to test for complete healing around the bone surrounding the tooth.
According to the Academy of General Dentistry, root canals, when properly completed, have a success rate of greater than 95 percent and are significantly less expensive than the alternative of extraction and replacement.
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure to save teeth and prevent further damage. The need for future root canals can be avoided by dental checkups twice per year with your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist and a care program that includes both fluoridated toothpaste and other home dental care.
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