Restoring and saving the tooth is what root canal treatment aims to do. Infection that affects the tooth nerves is removed and further damage is stopped by this treatment. Infection and inflammation in the tooth nerves cause tooth ache and if unchecked can result in the loss of the tooth. The root canal is the central core of the tooth, the inner portion of the teeth in which nerves are seen. Treatment is focused on this part of the tooth and hence gets its name.

A tooth has two distinct portions – the inner roots and outer visible crown region. Crown is usually the portion above the gum lining, roots help to anchor the tooth in its position. The root is attached to the jaw bone. The outer protective covering of the tooth is called the enamel. The inner core region- the pulp or the root canal is seen. This provides the nourishment and also moisturises the entire tooth. Nerve endings are seen in this core area. It is due to the presence of nerves that one can feel the hot and cold food and also pain.

The complete process

Root canal treatment as mentioned aims to save the infected tooth. The infection is in the interior core of the tooth. This procedure is done under anaesthesia as dentists would need access to the pulp area of the tooth. Local anaesthesia is applied to the gums to numb the area before the procedure. The tooth that needs treatment will be isolated from the neighbouring teeth.

A small opening will be made on the top portion of the tooth. This hole on the tooth will help the dentist reach the inner pulp of the tooth. Through this opening, the dentist will remove the infection and also the diseased dead tissues. Pain is not felt during the treatment as the area is numb due to anaesthesia. The inner core of the tooth is removed, dentists have special tools to help remove this.

After the decayed portion is removed, the interior of the tooth is cleaned, any remaining bacteria or dead cells are completely washed out. When the nerves are removed the tooth does not have any sensation. The interior of the root is shaped to receive dental fillings. Dental fillings of different varieties are available to choose from. The material that is used is made of a thermos plastic material, this will fill the empty interior of the tooth. The tooth is then sealed to ward off any further bacterial action.

When the nerve endings are removed, the tooth is vulnerable as it will not be getting its nourishment. To protect the tooth from further damage the dental fillings come in to offer fortification. Dentists will administer an antibiotic to stop any further bacterial damage to the tooth. It is important to follow the instructions to heal faster. Discomfort is normal after the treatment, pain killers will be given to help with the healing process.

The process is not as painful as feared by many. Anaesthesia will make the area numb during treatment and not pain is felt during the procedure. After the procedure and filling are complete slight discomfort is felt. Chewing or biting with the newly treated tooth might feel uncomfortable but this is only till one gets used to it. Root canal treatment is not a painful process, it saves the infected tooth.

Who needs this treatment?

Inflammation or infection in the pulp of the tooth can happen due to various reasons. Tooth decay, fracture or crack in the tooth, defective crowns all these can lead to infection. The common symptom that one would notice is tooth pain. This can be mild or severe for some. Some would not feel any pain until they are eating or chewing. Tooth pain being a common symptom usually gets ignored. Many feel that it would go away in a few days time. Besides this, some have symptoms of discoloured tooth, swelling in the gum lining that indicates there is infection, and sometimes prolonged teeth sensitivity.

Bacterial action can reach the pulp through a crack in the tooth, loose dental filling or even a deep dental cavity. Once it has reached the pulp, the damage usually spreads faster and the whole core of the tooth is lost. This is why it is important that pain in the tooth mustn’t be ignored. A dental consultation is a must, it will help to rule out dental concerns that are the cause of the main. Early detection and treatment need not require root canal treatment. But on the other hand, if it is ignored then the tooth cannot be saved and will require tooth extraction.

Caring after treatment

After the root canal, cleaning and caring for dental hygiene must continue as before. It should not be overlooked after the treatment is done. The food and drinks that are consumed will stain the tooth and can also attract plaque build-up. Plaque and tartar will form and harm the tooth if dental hygiene is neglected. This can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss and also bring down the oral hygiene and general health of a person.

Continuing regular care for the teeth and oral health is a must. Brushing and flossing should be done twice a day especially after consuming food. Food that is stuck between the teeth can be reduced by flossing. Food debris attracts bacterial action and plaque or tartar formation as well. Regular brushing will help to keep a check on this. During regular consultations going for scaling or cleaning of teeth will help to boost oral health. Teeth can be protected from any damage and proper care can be given to areas that are lacking complete oral health. Tips and guidance can be obtained from the dentist during these sessions. Not ignoring signs and symptoms and seeking early treatment helps to protect dental health.