Root Canal Treatment

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is designed to eliminate infection from inside the tooth, relieve pain, and save the natural tooth. The procedure involves the following steps:

1. Diagnostic Evaluation and Preparation

   Your endodontist performs a thorough diagnostic evaluation, including radiographic imaging. Local anesthetic is administered to ensure complete comfort. A dental dam (a small protective sheet) is placed over the tooth to isolate it and keep it clean and dry during the procedure.

2. Access Opening and Canal Cleaning

   An opening is made through the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Using specialized instruments, the infected or inflamed pulp tissue is removed. The root canals are carefully cleaned and shaped to prepare them for filling.

3. Filling the Canals

   The cleaned and shaped canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. A sealer cement is used in conjunction with the gutta-percha to ensure a complete seal of the root canal system.

4. Post Placement (If Needed)

   In some cases, a post may be placed inside the tooth to help support and retain the final restoration. This is determined based on the amount of remaining tooth structure.

5. Final Restoration

   After root canal treatment, the tooth must be restored with a permanent restoration, typically a crown. The crown protects the tooth from fracture and restores it to full function. It is important to return to your general dentist for the final restoration as soon as possible.

Ready to learn more or schedule treatment? Call us at (254) 374-6680 or request an appointment.