Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime. Years ago, diseased or injured teeth were usually pulled. But today, a tooth can often be saved through root canal treatment.
Diagram of Healthy Tooth
Why is root canal treatment done ?
Root Canal treatment is done when decay will likely damage or has already killed the tooth. The pulp, which is soft tissue inside the tooth, contains blood vessels and nerves. Treatment is needed when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. If damaged or infected pulp is not removed, the tissues around the root of the tooth can become infected.
What does the root canal treatment involve ?
Root Canal treatment may involve one or more dental visits. Your dentist will perform necessary steps to save your tooth.
The tooth is numbed for your comfort. The dentist may separate the decayed tooth from the other teeth with a small sheet of rubber on a metal frame. This protective rubber sheet also helps stop liquid and tooth chips from entering your mouth and throat.
An opening is made through the crown of the tooth into the pulp chamber.
The tooth’s nerve or pulp is removed from the pulp chamber and root canal. The root canal is cleaned and shaped so it can be filled
The root canals are usually filled with a rubber like material to seal them. In some cases a post is inserted for extra support.
A temporary filling is then placed in the tooth to prevent the contamination of the root canals. Your dentist might prescribe antibiotics if the infection has spread beyond the end of the root(s).
During the next stage of the treatment, the dentist removes the temporary filling and restores the tooth with a crown or a filling. This is done to strengthen the tooth and improve the way it looks. If an endodontist performs the root canal treatment, he or she usually recommends that you return to your general dentist for this step
How long will the restored tooth last?
A tooth with a root canal filling can last for many years. But like any other tooth, it can become decayed or fractured or the tissue around it can get gum disease. Daily cleanings and regular dental exams will help keep your mouth healthy, whether you have root canal treatment or not.
For your root canal treatment to be successful, it is very important to attend all your follow up appointments.
Fremont Dentist Dr. Jaspreet Harika DDS is an experienced dentist serving Fremont, Newark CA, Union City, Hayward, Milpitas and surrounding areas. Practicing general and cosmetic dentistry. She uses gentle techniques to perform dental procedures like root canal. She makes it a painless dental experience for her patients. Call 510.284.2511 to make an appointment or Book Online Now !