Root Canal/Endodontic Treatments

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

It is a procedure done to remove a tooth’s infected or inflamed pulp due to decay or trauma. The infected pulp is removed and that space is then filled with a biocompatible material, and the tooth is finally covered with a crown.

When is Root Canal Treatment Done?

Root canal treatment is preferred in the following cases:

• Deep dental caries.
• Traumatic injury involving the pulp.
• Cracked tooth.
• Discoloured tooth.
• Swelling or abscess on the tooth.
• Severe sensitivity to hot or cold.
• Pain while biting or chewing.
• Sometimes, as an elective procedure for placing bridge.

Who Performs Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is performed by a dental specialist called an endodontist.

What are the technologies used during root canal treatment?

• Apex locators:
  Apex locators help us in determining the exact length of the root canals and locating the tip of the root which helps in accurate filling of the canal.
• Digital X-rays (RVG):
  They decrease the amount of radiation compared to film radiographs. The dentist will take multiple x-rays instantly to make sure the canal is cleaned till the tip of the root.
• Endodontic files:
  They help in the efficient cleaning of the root canals. The two types of files are hand files and rotary files. Rotary files significantly reduce the operating time and can reach curved tips also due to their flexible nature.

How is a Root Canal Procedure Performed?

• Access is gained to the pulp by removing the decayed portion under local anesthesia.
• Working length determination and biomechanical preparation (cleaning and shaping of the canal) through hand files and rotary files.
• Obturation of the root canal that is filling of the root canal by inert material.
• Finally, the access hole is closed with the help of cement and a crown is placed on the tooth after taking measurements.

How Many Visits Does a Root Canal Treatment Take?

The procedure may be done in single sitting or multiple sittings(2-3 sittings) depending upon the infection present.
Medication is placed to disinfect the canal in between the visits.

Does Root Canal Treatment Cause Pain?

Generally, root canal treatment is done to relieve the pain caused by infection or inflammation.

As the procedure is done under local anaesthesia, patient will feel minimal discomfort and later on medications are given to relieve pain.

What is the Alternative to Root Canal Treatment?

Removing the whole tooth is an alternative to root canal treatment, but it is better to save the tooth as root canal treatment has a high success rate. Root canal treatment can prevent further tooth movement and difficulty in eating and chewing.

How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Last?

In most cases, root canal treatment lasts for a lifetime. It is necessary to get a crown after root canal treatment. Proper oral hygiene maintenance by brushing and flossing should be done to prevent secondary caries in root canal treated teeth. The chances of root canal failure are very less.