What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure performed to remove infected tooth pulp. Tooth pulp is the inner part of the tooth, which contains blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues. Also called endodontic therapy, a root canal is a relatively common procedure.
Tooth problems such as cracks, cavities, or other issues can indicate a need for a root canal. If bacteria enters the tooth through these openings, it can lead to infection and tooth decay. As a tooth infection becomes worse, it can start affecting the roots of the teeth and the surrounding gum tissue, leading to other problems like gum abscesses. Patients might also notice symptoms such as:
- Toothache or severe tooth pain
- Pain while biting or chewing
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swollen or tender gums
- Pimples on the gums
- Darkening of the gums
Root Canal Procedure
Patients often have questions about root canal therapy. To determine if you require a root canal procedure, your dentist may first take a dental x-ray. If they discover you need a root canal, treatment usually involves one to three visits.
During the first visit, your dentist will drill a small hole through the top of the tooth and into the tooth’s inner chamber to remove diseased tissue. Then they will clean and disinfect the chamber, and reshape the canal.
The clean chamber and canals are then filled with an elastic material and medication to prevent infection. If necessary, the drilled hole is temporarily filled until you can be fitted for a permanent crown.
Practicing good oral hygiene and getting regular dental cleanings are good ways to avoid a root canal, but if you do require root canal treatment, our team of Ames dentists perform this procedure frequently with skill and expertise. Most patients who receive root canal treatment experience little to no discomfort or pain.
