A root canal is the anatomical space within the root of a tooth. This space contains nerves and arteries that feed the tooth. There are 1 to 4 canals in a tooth depending on the location of the tooth in the mouth. A root canal treatment is the procedure a dentist performs to remove an infected nerve in the canal and then fill that space with a plastic or rubber material called gutta percha. As a whole, we say “root canal” to mean root canal treatment of a tooth.
Indications of a Root Canal
The main reason for the need of a root canal is a cavity reaching the canal of the tooth, which then infects the nerve within the canal. This usually takes time to occur and causes severe pain. An abscess or swelling could occur from the infection. Overall the tooth will be very sensitive to temperature changes and pressure. Other causes of pain to the tooth requiring a root canal are leaking dental crowns or fillings, cracked teeth, and trauma to teeth. If these causes deem the nerve irreversibly damaged, then the best option is a root canal to save the tooth. We always urge continued follow up visits to your dentist twice a year in order to evaluate cavities at an early stage to avoid root canal treatments.
Steps in performing a Root Canal
Once a root canal is diagnosed, a tooth is given the proper anesthetic solution. After the tooth is numb, the removal of the cavity is performed. An access is made to the opening of the canal in order to access the canal for nerve removal. Dental files are used to remove the nerve in the canal, then clean and shape the canal. The canal is dried and filled with a plastic or rubber material called gutta percha that is sealed to the canal. A filling material, usually composite, is used to cover the opening of the canal and missing tooth structure. A dental crown is then placed around the tooth to protect the tooth from breakage as the blood supply to the tooth is now missing causing the tooth to be fragile.
Proper maintenance including routine 6-month check-ups to your dentist and everyday proper oral hygiene will decrease your chances of needing a root canal.