If your tooth is in excruciating pain or discomfort, you should seek emergency dental care. Other symptoms that need a dentist's attention include swollen, tender, and infected gums. In most of these cases, a root canal treatment provides permanent relief. This is because these signs arise when the tooth's nerve is infected and starts to die gradually. Here are some phases of a root canal procedure.

Diagnosing the Infected Pulp

The inside of your tooth contains a substance called the pulp. When it is infected, you should have a root canal operation to prevent complete tooth loss. When a dentist finds that the cause of your toothache is inside the tooth, they will run tests to understand the problem. This involves performing digital X-rays and imaging to ensure that a root canal procedure is necessary.

Taking Out the Infected Pulp

After confirming that your pulp is infected, your endodontist will numb the affected area with a local anesthetic. They will place a rubber sheet around the tooth to ensure it remains clean and dry throughout the procedure.

The next stage involves creating an access hole. The hole is made in the crown of your tooth. This is the path through which the infected pulp will be removed. After removing the pulp, the practitioner will treat the inner tooth with antimicrobial washes to eliminate debris and promote healing. 

Placing a Temporary Filling Material

After cleaning the inner area of your tooth, the dentist will place the filling material. Before placing a filling, the endodontist must shape the canals. Next, the dentist will fill the canals with gutta-percha. The dentist will also seal the access hole to prevent bacteria. Finally, the dentist will fill the top of your tooth with a temporary material.

Placing a Crown

The restorative dentist will remove the temporary filling a few weeks after the root canal procedure. They will then place a crown over the healing tooth to strengthen it. A crown is mainly used if the root canal is on the back tooth or a severely damaged tooth.

The dentist customizes the crown so it looks like your other teeth. The dentist will also place a seal to protect your tooth from further infection.

In Closing

Consult a dentist if you experience any signs of tooth damage like swollen gums, high sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and intense toothaches. A root canal operation is a successful remedy for preserving broken teeth. Your tooth could need to be pulled if you don't receive root canal therapy in a timely manner. For more information on root canal procedures, contact a professional near you.

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