The "root canal" is a part of the tooth. The hollow part of the tooth contains nerve tissue, blood vessels, and other cells called the pulp.
A severely damaged or infected tooth can be saved with root canal treatment instead of extracted. "Root canal" refers to cleaning the canals found inside the roots of teeth.
How is a root canal performed?
This treatment can be done by a general dentist or a root canal specialist called an endodontist. When you arrive for your appointment at Root Canal Treatment Houston, a technician will take you to the treatment room, help you sit in a chair, and place a bib around your neck to protect your clothes from stains.
Step 1: Anesthetic
The dentist will apply a small amount of numbing medicine to your gums near the affected tooth. After the medicine has taken effect, your gums will be injected. You may feel a sharp stinging or burning sensation, but it will pass quickly. You will be awake during the procedure, but the anesthetic will prevent you from feeling any pain.
Step 2: Removing the pulp
While your tooth is numb, the endodontist or general dentist will make a small hole in the top of the tooth. When the infected or damaged pulp is visible, the expert will use special instruments to delicately remove it. They will be especially careful to clean all your tooth's passageways (ducts).
Step 3: Antibiotics
Once the pulp is removed, the dentist may apply topical antibiotics to the area to kill the infection and prevent re-infection. Once the tubules are cleaned and disinfected, the dentist will seal the tooth with sealer paste and a rubber-like gutta-percha material. They might also recommend oral antibiotics for you.
Step 4: Filling the canal
The dentist will finish the procedure by filling the small hole in the top of the tooth with a soft, temporary material. This sealant helps protect the ducts from being damaged by saliva.
How to Determine Whether You Need a Root Canal
When you might require a root canal procedure
- painful toothache when eating or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums
- Discoloration of your tooth
- A frequent or chronic zit on your gums
You may need a root canal.
Is a root canal painful?
Because patients are given anesthesia, a root canal is no more painful than a routine dental procedure, such as a filling or wisdom tooth extraction. However, there is usually some pain or numbness after a root canal procedure, and there may be some mild discomfort for a few days.
How much does a root canal cost?
The cost depends on the complexity of the problem and which tooth is affected. Molars are more expensive to treat and require more skill. However, most dental insurance plans include some coverage for endodontic treatment.
In takeaway
A root canal is a dental procedure used to save teeth that are damaged or infected.
A root canal is the best treatment when the pulp of your tooth is damaged.
If you find a root canal dentist near me in dental emergencies, then book an appointment with an emergency dentist open on Saturday to improve your health.
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