How Does a Dentist Do a Root Canal?
Key Steps Explained
Quick Answer
How does a dentist do a root canal?
A dentist accesses the inside of the affected tooth and removes unhealthy soft tissue before cleaning and preparing its root canals. The spaces are then filled, sealed, and restored to support saving your natural tooth whenever appropriate.
Key Takeaways
- Dental X-rays can help with treatment planning.
- Local anesthesia is normally used before the procedure.
- The dentist removes damaged or infected pulp.
- Specialized instruments prepare the internal canals.
- A material called gutta-percha commonly fills the root spaces.
- Treatment may be provided by a dentist or endodontist.
The visible part of a tooth is only one part of its structure. Below the surface are internal spaces that extend from the center of the tooth into its roots.
When tissue in these areas becomes severely damaged or infected, root canal or endodontic treatment may be recommended. This dental procedure treats the inside of the tooth while preserving the remaining natural structure when possible.
What Does a Dentist Do During a Root Canal?
Treatment typically begins with an examination. The dentist may also take X-rays to evaluate the roots and surrounding area.
Preparing for Treatment
Local anesthesia helps with numbing the area around the affected tooth.
Once the tooth is comfortable, a small opening is made to provide access to the internal chamber.
Removing the Unhealthy Tissue
The dental pulp tissue contains nerves, blood vessels, and other soft components.
When necessary, the dentist removes the infected pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals.
This tissue also contains blood vessels and connective structures involved in the tooth’s development. Mature permanent teeth can generally remain functional after pulp removal.
What Do Dentists Use to Clean Root Canals?
After removing the unhealthy tissue, the canals must be carefully cleaned and prepared before they can be filled and sealed.
During this stage of the root canal procedure, the dentist uses small instruments and dental cleaning solutions to work through the narrow spaces inside the roots. These tools help remove remaining tissue and debris. The dentist carefully cleans and shapes each accessible canal before it is filled.
Because teeth vary in the number, size, and shape of their canals, treatment is tailored to the individual root system. Some canals may be narrow or curved and require additional time to prepare.
What Do Dentists Fill Root Canals With?
Once the canals are cleaned and prepared, what do dentists fill root canals with?
A common filling material is gutta-percha. It is a flexible dental material specifically suited for filling prepared root canal spaces.
Gutta-percha is normally placed with a dental sealer to help close small spaces within the canals. Together, these materials create an internal seal inside the treated tooth before the tooth receives its final restoration.
What Do Dentists Put in Root Canal Teeth After the Canals Are Filled?
After the root canals have been filled and sealed, the top portion of the tooth needs to be closed and restored as well.
A dentist may use a temporary filling to protect the opening until a final restoration can be completed. Depending on the location, condition, and strength of the tooth, a permanent filling or dental crown may be recommended.
The amount of healthy tooth structure remaining and the pressure the tooth handles during biting and chewing can help guide this decision. Your dentist will recommend the restoration that is appropriate for your individual tooth.
Caring for the Tooth
Be careful with chewing until your dentist confirms that the tooth is fully restored. This is especially important if a temporary restoration remains in place, as it may not be designed to handle the same forces as the final restoration.
Follow any instructions your dentist provides about eating and cleaning the treated area. Continue brushing and flossing to support your oral health and the teeth and tissues surrounding the treated tooth.
Final Thoughts
Root canal treatment focuses on removing unhealthy tissue and sealing the internal spaces of a tooth. After cleaning and filling the canals, the tooth receives the restoration needed to protect its remaining structure.
An infected tooth should be professionally evaluated so the appropriate treatment can be determined.
Get Clear Guidance for Tooth Pain in Peoria
Persistent dental pain can be frustrating when you do not know what is causing it. An Emergency Dentist in Peoria can examine the tooth and discuss the findings with you so you can better understand whether root canal treatment or another option may be needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all root canals straight?
No. Root canals can curve, branch, or vary in shape, which is one reason dentists evaluate the tooth carefully before and during treatment.
Can a root canal be done if the tooth has a large filling?
Possibly. The dentist needs to assess the remaining tooth structure and existing restoration before determining the treatment approach.
Why might I need a crown after treatment?
A crown may be recommended when additional protection is needed for the remaining tooth structure, particularly in teeth that handle strong chewing forces.
Can I use a straw after a root canal?
Aftercare recommendations depend on your treatment and any additional procedures performed. Follow the instructions your dental team gives you.
What happens if my temporary restoration feels loose?
Contact your dental office for guidance. A loose temporary restoration may need to be checked or replaced.
