What is involved in root canal therapy?
The aim of root canal treatment is to remove inflamed and infected pulp tissue from within the root canals, to allow relief of pain initially and elimination of infection with ultimate retention of the tooth.
The first step is to administer local anaesthetic to numb your tooth and surrounding area. A sheet of rubber (rubber dam) is applied to the tooth, which isolates it; preventing debris from within the tooth entering the mouth and preventing saliva and bacteria from the mouth entering the tooth.
A small hole is made in the top of the tooth to gain access to the pulp which is removed using fine, specially designed instruments. The root canals are then cleaned, reshaped and disinfected. Usually at the first treatment appointment an antibacterial/sedative dressing is placed in the canals followed by a temporary filling in the access opening.
The final stage of the root canal procedure is to seal (fill) the root canals with a filling material (gutta percha) to prevent reinfection ,after which a temporary filling is usually placed again in the access opening. After the root canal treatment has been completed you will need to schedule an appointment with your dentist to replace the temporary filling. Your dentist will discuss the appropriate permanent restoration with you. It is generally recommended that root filled teeth be restored with a crown, which replaces missing tooth structure and supports the tooth, protecting it from possible fracture.
