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Root canals
What are root canals?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infected or damaged tooth. When a tooth becomes infected, the pulp inside the tooth (which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue) can become inflamed and cause pain. A root canal is a procedure that removes the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, cleans the inside of the tooth, and then seals it to prevent further infection.
Root canals are typically recommended when a tooth has a deep cavity, a cracked or broken tooth, or has undergone repeated dental procedures. The signs that a patient may need a root canal include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swelling or tenderness in the gums, and discoloration of the tooth.
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What to expect during your visit at Mr. Dentist:
- Examination: Dr. Plonski will first examine your teeth to determine if a root canal is necessary. He may take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage or infection.
- Anesthesia: Before beginning the procedure, Dr. Plonski will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth.
- Access to the Pulp: Dr. Plonski will create a small access hole in the top of the tooth to gain access to the pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels.
- Removal of Infected Tissue: Dr. Plonski will then use small files to carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth. He will also clean out any debris or bacteria that may be present in the tooth's root canals.
- Filling the Canals: After the pulp has been removed and the canals have been cleaned, Dr. Plonski will fill the canals with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This helps to seal the canals and prevent further infection.
- Restoration: Once the root canal has been completed, Dr. Plonski will fill the access hole in the tooth with a temporary filling. You will need to return to the dental office to have a permanent filling or crown placed over the tooth to restore its strength and function.
- Post-Procedure: After the root canal procedure, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. Dr. Plonski will provide you with specific aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding certain foods or using special cleaning techniques to care for the tooth.