Root Canal Treatment: A Dental Restoration to Treat an Infected Tooth

Dental restorations refers to a procedure that is done in order to restore a tooth that is in bad shape due to decay, abnormalities, or imperfections. There are a number of different dental restorations that dentists can administer to patients of all ages.

One of the most commonly performed dental restoration procedures is a root canal, which often sparks fear in people when they hear the term. However, patients can rest assured knowing that root canals have become a lot more modernized. Current dental technology allows for a seamless, relatively painless procedure that effectively restores the health of the tooth.

Dental restoration and root canals

Below is a quick overview of root canal procedures, which are common dental restorations needed to address a damaged tooth. Keep reading to learn more.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental restoration procedure that clears out an unhealthy tooth and then recaps it to ensure the health and structural integrity of the tooth is restored. Root canals are needed on teeth that have infected pulp, which is the interior portion of the tooth where the nerves are housed. When the pulp becomes infected, patients are likely to need a serious dental restoration, in order to restore health, avoid pain, and save the nerves of the tooth.

Understanding the root canal process

A root canal procedure used to be considered invasive, however, as times have changed, it is now very simple. The dentist starts by numbing the patient to ensures that they are comfortable. Then, the dentist removes the infected portions of the pulp by using a dental drill to access the area. After all infected parts have been removed, a quick but thorough cleaning takes place. The interior of the tooth has to be cleaned to ensure that there is nothing left behind that may cause problems in the future. A dental material called gutta-percha is used to fill the cavity of the tooth. Gutta-percha is rubber-like and works to seal the tooth off to protect it from future damage.

After the tooth has been sealed, the next part of the dental restoration takes place. As it relates to a root canal, the permanent dental restorations are typically dental crowns. General dentists highly recommend the placement of a dental crown as a way to protect the tooth.

A temporary dental crown will be placed over the tooth to protect it until a permanent crown is created. A week or so later, the patient can return for the final placement of the permanent dental crown, which is either made of gold or ceramic materials, both of which are durable.

Do you need a root canal?

Individuals who need a root canal or other dental restoration can consult with our general dentist to learn more. Additionally, an evaluation can be done in order to determine the most suitable dental restoration. Reach out today to ask questions or to schedule a consultation appointment.

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