Root canal treatments are usually performed on infected teeth to preserve them and prevent the spreading of infection to other teeth. These treatments are very essential to preserve the natural teeth and avoid tooth removal.

It involves the removal of the infected part of the tooth, usually the pulp, by creating a canal or cavity in the tooth. Later, this cavity is filled with dental filling to prevent re-accumulation and the growth of bacteria. A crown is also placed over the filling to strengthen the tooth from the inside out.

The root canal treatment unfolds in 4 stages and usually takes 2 appointments to complete. Let us try to understand the stages of root canal treatment.

 

Stage I: Root Canal Diagnosis

Patients usually approach the dentist complaining about toothache, sudden tooth loss, inflammation, etc. On examination of the teeth, the dentist may refer the patient to a specialist for proper analysis of the condition. Digital devices like X-ray scanning, digital imagery, etc. may be used for accurate analysis. Sensitivity tests may also be performed. These observations will be sent to the dentist.

After making sure that a root canal treatment is required, the dentist may begin the procedure. Local anaesthesia is administered around the affected tooth and nearby tissues to numb the pain. The procedure will only begin after making sure that the affected area has numbed completely. However, the patient will remain awake during the procedure.

Root canal procedure has a reputation for being painful, but with the help of modern dentistry and local anaesthesia, the patient experiences manageable pain and discomfort.

 

Stage II: removal of pulp

After administering anaesthesia, a small rubber dam will be placed in the mouth to separate the affected teeth from the healthy ones. A rubber dam also helps prevent infection to other teeth and helps the dentist concentrate better on the site of operation.

The next step will involve making an opening in the affected tooth using specialized micro equipment. The cavity or canal is created in such a way that it reaches the root or pulp chamber of the teeth. The canal is widened for easy removal of the pulp.

The next step involves the removal of the infected pulp using tools. The whole canal is cleansed and the dentist makes sure there is no residual pulp tissue left in the canal. If any of the rotten pulp tissue is left in the tooth, it can re-infect the tooth.

After a thorough cleaning, the dentist may apply an antiseptic or antibiotic solution to the inside of the canal to prevent the growth of microbes again. A solution of sodium hydrochloride may be used to eradicate bacteria. The next step involves the fling of the canal with a dental filling.

 

Stage III: Root Canal filling

The cavity created will not be left empty as it could easily breed bacteria and other germs and food particles can get stuck in it. This filling of the root canal will be performed by an endodontist. The canal will be filled with a temporary dental filling or root filling. This filling is popularly known as ‘gutta–percha’ and is a rubber-like material. It is only filled in the cavity after making sure that the canal has dried completely and is clean.

Also, if the canal is widened for the removal of rotten pulp, a dental rod or other supporting structure has to be installed inside the tooth to strengthen it. After filling gutta–percha into the cavity, it is heated and compressed to the walls of the canal gently. The opening of the tooth is sealed with the help of dental packing or adhesive dental cement to prevent leakage of the filling from inside the tooth and to prevent the entry of bacteria and other microbes.

 

Stage IV: Restoration

This is the final stage of root canal treatment and it is performed by the restorative dentist. After a few weeks, the temporary filling from the tooth is removed and replaced by a permanent filling. A permanent crown will also be placed over the top of the tooth to strengthen it.

The crown also covers the teeth in such a way that further infection is prevented and the entry of microbes is blocked. It also protects the teeth from catching food particles.

 

Root Canal aftercare tips

Just after the procedure, the patient will be advised to avoid eating or drinking anything for a few hours. This is done to prevent the sticking of food particles to the filling or packing. This will also help prevent pain caused due to teeth sensitivity. Also, too hot or cold foods can burn the mouth, so the patient should strictly avoid consuming anything. The patient will also be provided with antibiotics for pain management and the prevention of microbial growth. A manageable amount of pain and discomfort is expected a few days following the procedure.

The patients are expected to maintain good oral health by brushing their teeth daily and regularly attending follow-up appointments. They are also advised to chew from one side of the mouth where the procedure was not performed. Eating soft foods with mild flavours for a few days is also recommended.