A root canal procedure is a type of dental treatment in which they remove the infected or decayed pulp in the root of a tooth to prevent the spread of an infection and preserve the long-term health of the tooth. It is helpful to understand the process dentists use during a root canal procedure to mentally and physically prepare before treatment.
Although dentists tailor the treatment process specifically for each patient, there are common steps during a root canal procedure that patients can expect. In most instances, patients can expect four steps during the process, which include the consultation visit, the procedure that involves removal of the infected pulp, cleaning and sealing the tooth and applying the dental crown.
The first step in the treatment process is a consultation visit. Patients who have signs of a tooth infection should visit the dentist to see if a root canal procedure is necessary. These symptoms include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold foods and gum complications. During the first visit, the dentist will discuss the symptoms with the patient and conduct an oral examination to determine the severity of the concern and what treatment options are available. The dentist may also order dental X-rays on the first visit if additional testing is needed.
If a follow-up visit is scheduled for a root canal procedure, then the dentist will likely start by numbing the tooth to minimize discomfort during treatment. They will then carefully access the root of the tooth where the infection is present. Using either small dental tools or laser dentistry, the dentist will then remove the infected, decayed or damaged pulp material in the root of the tooth.
After removing all of the problematic dental pulp, the dentist will then clean the affected area and fill the tooth. This ensures the tooth is not vulnerable to other concerns in the future and allows the tooth to fill and function in a more normal manner. After sealing the tooth, the dentist will take a dental impression and place a temporary crown while the permanent crown is created.
Most root canal procedures require a dental crown to ensure the tooth is properly protected from further damage. The dental crown will take some time to create, and the patient will wear a temporary crown while they wait. Once the permanent crown is ready, the patient will have a follow-up visit for the placement of the permanent crown. The dentist will also provide aftercare instructions to help the patient care for their crown long term.
You can learn more about how a root canal procedure works by contacting our experienced and professional dental professionals today. We are happy to address your questions and concerns and explain all available treatment options so that you can make the most informed decision.
Are you considering a root canal in the Needham area? Get more information at https://bcdentalneedham.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal in Needham, MA.
A dental restoration is administered by dentists to help patients repair teeth that have become damaged from injuries or cavities. There are a lot of different dental restoration options, each benefiting patients in different ways. Knowing which procedure is best requires careful consideration and the assistance of a dentist. Ready to learn more?The following information…
Direct and indirect dental restorations are the two types of restorations available. When your teeth are broken, chipped, decayed or cracked, dental restoration procedures restore the teeth to their original state. The choice of the type of restoration depends on the nature and severity of the tooth problem.Read on to find out the main differences…
Veneers are often recommended for patients who have cracked, chipped, or stained teeth. These shells cover minor dental imperfections and give patients brighter, straighter smiles in minimal time. As an added bonus, there is often no discomfort when being fitted. Patients should understand the differences between composite and porcelain materials to have a knowledgeable discussion…
If you have a mild to moderate misalignment and are considering clear aligners treatment, then it is helpful to understand what you can expect during the treatment process. Every patient has a unique experience, but there are many similarities that you can expect before your consultation visit. Clear aligners for adults offer a unique way to…
Veneers are often recommended for patients who have cracked, chipped, or stained teeth. These shells cover minor dental imperfections and give patients brighter, straighter smiles in minimal time. As an added bonus, there is often no discomfort when being fitted. Patients should understand the differences between composite and porcelain materials to have a knowledgeable discussion…
If you have a mild to moderate misalignment and are considering clear aligners treatment, then it is helpful to understand what you can expect during the treatment process. Every patient has a unique experience, but there are many similarities that you can expect before your consultation visit. Clear aligners for adults offer a unique way to…
