Root canal treatment is a common procedure used to save a tooth that’s badly infected or decayed. Here’s a quick overview of the process:
Diagnosis and Preparation: Your dentist will first assess the tooth using X-rays to confirm the infection and extent of damage. Once determined, local anesthesia is applied to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience.
Cleaning and Shaping: The dentist then creates a small opening in the tooth to remove the infected pulp. After cleaning the inside, the canals are carefully shaped and disinfected to prevent further infection.
Filling and Sealing: The canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, to restore structure. The tooth is sealed, and often, a crown is placed on top for added protection and durability.
With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime!