If you have an infection inside of a tooth, the pain and discomfort can be extremely hard to deal with. With time, the symptoms will only get worse, and if the infection is inside the tooth, there are two options – Either have the tooth removed or go for root canal therapy. Unfortunately, there are plenty of misconceptions around root canal therapy, or RCT, but as long as you choose the right NW Albuquerque dentist, these concerns are limited. In this guide, we will discuss the procedure along with common questions.
Understand RCT in plain words
RCT is used to address infections concerning the inner structure of the tooth. Bacterial growth can cause decay in a tooth, leading to an infection of the pulp. It is essential to remove the pulp, blood vessels, and decay to save the tooth, and that’s the essence of root canal therapy. There are many telltale signs of root canal therapy, such as pain in the infected tooth, inflamed gums, increased sensitivity, and darkening of the enamel. You may also experience pain while eating and chewing. Some patients may not have these symptoms, but the dentist can detect a possible infection during a dental exam.
Steps in root canal therapy
- The first part is the consultation, where the dentist will talk about root canal therapy and why you may need the procedure. They will also explain the pros and cons, including why RCT is better than having the tooth removed.
- As the initial step of the procedure, the dentist will first use local anesthesia to numb the tooth and gums surrounding it. They will then create an opening through the enamel to reach the pulp and root canals. They will use the X-rays to clean the canals and remove the pulp and blood vessels.
- Next, they will clean and disinfect the root canals and seal the tooth with a material that will prevent the risk of reinfection. The procedure is then complete. If your dentist decides to divide the treatment steps into two to three appointments, a temporary filling will be used.
Getting a crown
Because your tooth is now hollow and weak, the dentist will usually suggest getting a dental crown, which is made of different materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. A crown works like a cap for the treated tooth and restores its shape and function, ensuring you can use the tooth as naturally as possible to chew foods. Many local clinics offer same-day crowns, while in some cases, the dentist may take two appointments to take impressions of the mouth and order a crown from the lab.
How painful is the procedure?
Contrary to what many patients think, root canal therapy is not painful. You will feel no pain during the appointment as the dentist will use local anesthesia. Some discomfort is not unusual after the anesthesia effects wear off, and if that happens, they may recommend painkillers to address the symptoms. Sometimes, dentists also give antibiotics to accelerate the healing. In terms of experience, root canal therapy is no different than having a cavity treated.
The success rate of root canal therapy
RCT is highly successful and one of the most common endodontic treatments. Most patients experience no concerns after the treatment, and the treated tooth is likely to work as expected for years to come. In some cases, infection may resurface, but if the dentist feels the tooth can be saved, they can go for root canal retreatment, which involves the same steps.
If you have any questions about root canal therapy, you can discuss them with your NW Albuquerque dentist during the consultation.