What is Root Canal Treatment?

Tooth decay is a common problem among both children and adults. This problem primarily arises out of inadequate oral hygiene practices. If the decaying tooth is left untreated, chances are that the harmful bacteria will infect the tooth root or the dental pulp inside the tooth. Once the inner nerve of the tooth is infected, it is very difficult for the nerve to recover on its own.

An infected nerve will cause inflammation and a persistent tooth ache. Many patients come to the dentist when there is already a tooth ache and the infection has reached the tooth nerve. A conservative dentist will examine and monitor the condition in the hope that the infection may recover on its own. However, in absence of recovery, the dentist will perform a root canal treatment.

In root canal treatment, the tooth nerve or the dental pulp is removed entirely in order to eliminate the infection. This is the only way to save the tooth structure from getting completely destroyed by the infection. The cavity or the empty space is then disinfected, filled and sealed in order to eliminate or at least contain the infection.

Tooth nerve may also get damaged due to an accident, injury or trauma to the tooth structure. Even in such cases, if the nerve fails to recover on its own, and the patient is suffering from pain, the only alternative left is Root Canal treatment.

Root canal treatment is mostly accompanied by dental crown placement. This becomes essential because the tooth structure gets compromised to an extent because of the invasive root canal procedure. There is a risk that the tooth may develop a crack or fracture when it is exposed to the biting and chewing forces in the mouth. Therefore, to retain the original tooth structure, it is reinforced with a fabricated crown.

A dentist who is experienced in root canal treatments is the best person to perform this procedure. The key is to remove the infection carefully and completely so that there is no chance of a relapse.



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