What is a Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a procedure aimed at saving a severely decayed or infected tooth by treating the tissues located in the root of the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, potentially leading to an abscess.
Although root canal treatments have a high success rate (over 90%), as with other medical procedures, it is not possible to guarantee the outcome with absolute certainty.
How is a Root Canal Treatment Performed?
Local anesthesia may be administered during the treatment process. After creating an access cavity on the tooth to reach the root canal, the inside of the root is cleaned using delicate instruments. Certain medications are used to disinfect the canals and remove infected tissue.
Before placing a permanent filling or an indirect restoration, the canals are sealed with a root canal filling material. Root canal treatment is an effective and reliable procedure.
How Long Does It Take?
The treatment can be completed in a single visit, but depending on the condition of the tooth, it may also require multiple sessions over the course of a few weeks. The number of sessions needed for a root canal treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the condition of the tooth.
What to Expect After Root Canal Treatment?
It is normal to experience some sensitivity in the tooth during the first few days after the treatment or between sessions. Pain relievers may be prescribed if necessary. In some cases, a chronic infection may become acute following the root canal treatment. This can be managed with prescribed antibiotics and pain medication.