There is no need to fear if your general dentist has recommended root canal treatment. This dental procedure is performed on millions of patients every year and is similar to a routine filling. It is a beneficial procedure that saves a tooth that has become infected or damaged. Many patients wonder if the tooth is dead after the treatment is completed. The answer to this question lies in understanding the anatomy of a tooth and the root canal process.
Each tooth is made up of four layers of tissues. Three of these layers, including the enamel, dentin, and cementum, are hard substances that cover and protect various parts of the tooth. The fourth type is called the pulp, and it is a soft tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels. The pulp chamber is responsible for helping the root of a tooth grow during development.
After a tooth is fully developed, it can survive without the pulp because it receives nutrients from surrounding tissues. For this reason, the tooth does not become "dead" following a root canal treatment.
A general dentist recommends root canal treatment as an effective way to save a tooth rather than removing it. Below are the four steps followed during a root canal.
First, the dental professional takes X-rays of the tooth and surrounding bone. This provides a clear picture of the structure and condition of the tooth. After the X-rays are completed, a dental dam is placed to protect the site from saliva and keep it clean.
Using a small drill, an opening is created at the top of the tooth to access the dental pulp. Small files are used to extract the damaged pulp and shape the interior of the tooth. The dental professional may irrigate the tooth chamber to ensure the area is clear of infection. An antimicrobial solution is often used to kill bacteria in the tooth to prevent further infection.
Once the interior of the tooth is cleaned and dried, a material, called gutta-percha, is used to fill the tooth. The opening is then closed with a temporary filling. The patient schedules a follow-up appointment to allow time for healing and for a permanent crown to be made.
After several weeks, the general dentist places a permanent crown over the tooth. If the crown needs additional support, a metal post may be placed inside the tooth to make it more stable.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
General Dentist in Oxford, MS
Though a root canal involves removing the nerves from inside a tooth, the tooth continues to function as normal. The nerves play an insignificant role in a fully developed tooth; thus, the tooth is still alive. A root canal is a beneficial treatment that saves a tooth from extraction and allows a patient to maintain a healthy smile. A patient who practices good oral care and visits a general dentist regularly can expect a restored tooth to last a lifetime.
Request an appointment or call Lee Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at 662-546-1143 for an appointment in our Oxford office.
General dentists are some of the most visited professionals in their field. The American Dental Association recommends that people as young as one year old maintain a biannual checkup schedule. Their primary aim is to preserve or improve patients' oral health, which they do in various ways. Let us look at six of them.Depending on…
Cavities are a common dental issue that, when left untreated, can cause discomfort and affect oral health. A general dentist offers a variety of options for cavity treatment. Visiting the dentist for routine appointments can prevent tooth decay or repair the damage as soon as possible.Cavities, also known as dental caries, occur when bacteria in…
Wondering how a general dentist can support your oral wellness? Read on to learn more. A journey toward optimal oral health is like going through a maze. Every decision you make affects your health in many ways. Your guide on this path is the general dentist, directing your steps regarding preventive care, routine check-ups, and…
General dentists are some of the most visited professionals in their field. The American Dental Association recommends that people as young as one year old maintain a biannual checkup schedule. Their primary aim is to preserve or improve patients' oral health, which they do in various ways. Let us look at six of them.Depending on…
Cavities are a common dental issue that, when left untreated, can cause discomfort and affect oral health. A general dentist offers a variety of options for cavity treatment. Visiting the dentist for routine appointments can prevent tooth decay or repair the damage as soon as possible.Cavities, also known as dental caries, occur when bacteria in…