Root Canal Treatment: Last Chance to Save Your Tooth

Dt. Birol Canlı Sept. 3, 2024, 12:10 p.m.

Toothache is one of the most annoying conditions many of us face. As the pain intensifies, you may think that the tooth must be lost. However, tooth loss is not always inevitable. Root canal treatment, one of the most effective methods to save your tooth, can work wonders on decayed or infected teeth. In this article, we will explain what root canal treatment is, when it is performed and how it is done.

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is the process of removing and cleaning the infected or damaged pulp tissue (nerves and blood vessels) inside the tooth, and then filling and sealing the tooth. This treatment preserves the natural structure of the tooth and saves teeth that need to be extracted due to decay or infection. Root canal treatment preserves the external structure of the tooth, allowing it to maintain its natural appearance and function.

Application Areas of Root Canal Treatment

Advanced Caries: When decay breaks through the enamel and reaches the pulp tissue, it can cause severe pain and infection. Root canal treatment is the most commonly used method to save the tooth in such cases.

Tooth Trauma: A hard blow to the tooth can cause damage to the pulp tissue. This may require root canal treatment, otherwise the tooth may be lost.

Infections in the Tooth: Abscesses in the root of the tooth can spread to the root canal of the tooth, in which case root canal treatment is necessary to clean the infection and save the tooth.

Recurrent Dental Treatments: The pulp tissue of the tooth may be damaged after previous filling or crown treatments. In this case, root canal treatment may be necessary.

How is root canal treatment performed?

Root canal treatment is usually performed in several stages and is usually completed in one or two appointments:

Examination and X-ray: The dentist assesses the condition of the tooth and takes x-rays to determine the extent of the spread of the infection.

Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied so that you do not feel any pain during the treatment.

Pulp Tissue Removal: The damaged or infected pulp tissue inside the tooth is carefully removed.

Cleaning and Shaping: The root canals are cleaned, disinfected and shaped accordingly.

Filling and sealing the tooth: The root canals are filled with a special filling material and the upper part of the tooth is sealed with a permanent filling or crown.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Saves the Tooth Root canal treatment saves teeth that need to be extracted due to decay or infection.
Preserves Natural Tooth Structure: It preserves the natural structure of the tooth, keeping it aesthetically and functionally intact.
Relieves Pain: Eliminates pain in infected or damaged teeth.
Long Term Solution: When applied correctly, root canal treatment allows the tooth to be used for a lifetime.
What Should Be Considered After Root Canal Treatment?
After root canal treatment, you may experience a slight sensitivity until your tooth heals. This usually passes within a few days. It is important to continue brushing and flossing your teeth regularly after treatment. You should also keep up with the periodic check-ups recommended by your dentist.

Conclusion

Root canal treatment is one of the most effective ways to maintain dental health and prevent tooth loss. If you are experiencing severe pain, sensitivity or signs of infection, you can consult your dentist to find out if root canal treatment is right for you. Early intervention is the most important step to save your tooth and live a pain-free life.