Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure used to treat infections and damage to the innermost part of the tooth, known as the pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, and when it becomes infected or damaged, it can cause pain and other symptoms.
The process of RCT involves these following steps:
- X-ray: The first step is to take an X-ray of the affected tooth to determine the extent of the damage and whether RCT is necessary.
- Anesthesia: Before the procedure, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding area.
- Access: The dentist will make a small hole in the top of the tooth to access the pulp.
- Removal: The dentist will use specialized instruments to remove the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth.
- Cleaning: Once the pulp is removed, the dentist will clean the inside of the tooth and the root canals to remove any remaining bacteria or debris.
- Filling: The dentist will then fill the inside of the tooth and the root canals with a special material, usually a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha.
- Restoration: Finally, the dentist will place a filling or crown on top of the tooth to restore its appearance and function.
After the RCT procedure, the patient may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. It is important to practice good oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups to ensure the continued health of the treated tooth.
