Root Canal Treatment

Signs You May Be Experiencing Dental Pulp Problems

• Severe toothache even when not eating or chewing
• Swollen or red gums around the tooth
• Pus drainage or a gum boil on the gums
• Large cavities or severely fractured teeth

What Does the Root Canal Treatment Process Include?

After a comprehensive examination, dental X-rays will be taken to assess the condition before treatment and monitor progress throughout the procedure.

If the tooth is still painful, the dentist will administer local anesthesia before starting treatment. Next, the pulp chamber inside the tooth is opened using a dental drill. The infected pulp tissue is completely removed, and the dentist thoroughly cleans and disinfects the pulp chamber and root canals.

Root canal treatment instruments at hiDental Dental Clinic

During treatment sessions, if necessary, the dentist may place a rubber dam to isolate the tooth from the oral environment. Although this step may feel slightly uncomfortable, it is extremely important because it helps create a clean and dry working area while minimizing bacterial contamination.

Rubber dam placement during root canal treatment (Source: Quora)

In more complex cases, the dentist may need several appointments before permanently sealing the root canals. Finally, the lost tooth structure will be restored with either a filling or a dental crown.

Important Things to Know About Root Canal Treatment:

• To achieve the best treatment results, root canal therapy may require one or multiple appointments depending on the severity of the pulp damage.
• If multiple treatment sessions are needed, you may experience some discomfort between appointments. If this happens, contact your dentist immediately so appropriate pain management can be provided.

Aftercare Tips Following Root Canal Treatment

• Avoid chewing with the treated tooth until the tooth structure has been fully restored, as the tooth may be more brittle and prone to fracture than a healthy tooth.
• Maintain thorough and careful oral hygiene. You should also use dental floss after meals to ensure effective cleaning.
• You may eat normally, but avoid chewing very hard foods on the side where the treated tooth is located.