Root Canal

A root canal is a dental procedure performed to treat a painful, infected or severely decayed tooth. The process involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then filling and sealing them to prevent further infection.

The tooth is composed of several layers, including the outer protective enamel, a layer of dentin, and a soft tissue called dental pulp, which contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. When a tooth is healthy, the dental pulp plays a vital role in tooth development, but once the tooth is fully formed, it can survive without the pulp.

In some cases, the dental pulp becomes infected or damaged due to deep decay, a cracked tooth or trauma to the tooth. When this happens, bacteria can enter the pulp, leading to an infection or abscessed tooth. Symptoms of an infected tooth may include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling, or a pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth.
A root canal procedure usually involves the following steps: 

• Anesthesia: The dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring a pain-free procedure.
• Access opening: A small access hole is drilled through the top of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals.
• Removal of infected pulp: Using specialized instruments called files, the dentist carefully removes the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth's pulp chamber and root canals. The dentist may also shape and clean the canals to prepare them for filling.
• Disinfection and irrigation: The canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate any remaining bacteria or debris. This step helps prevent reinfection.
• Filling and sealing: After the canals are cleaned and dried, they are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha, along with a dental adhesive, seals the canals to prevent further infection.
• Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will require additional dental work, such as a dental crown, to restore its strength, function, and appearance. The dentist will place a dental crown or filling on top of the treated tooth to protect it and restore its natural shape.

Root canals have a high success rate, and with proper care, the treated tooth can function normally for many years. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, to prevent future dental problems. 

If you experience any symptoms of tooth infection or decay, it is important to consult with a dental professional who can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include a root canal if necessary.