Quick Answer
How does a dentist do a root canal?
A dentist removes damaged or infected tissue from inside the tooth, carefully cleans the inner spaces, and seals them to help protect the tooth. The goal is to treat the problem while saving your natural tooth whenever possible.
Key Takeaways
- Root canal treatment removes damaged or infected tissue from inside a tooth.
- Local anesthesia is used to help keep you comfortable during treatment.
- The inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned, shaped, filled, and sealed.
- A material called gutta percha is commonly used to seal the cleaned root canals.
- A filling or crown may be placed afterward to restore and protect the tooth.
- Treatment may be performed by a general dentist or endodontist, depending on the tooth and its complexity.
If you have been told you may need a root canal, it is natural to wonder what happens once you are in the dental chair. Knowing the basic steps can make the process easier to understand and help you know what to expect.
A root canal is a common dental procedure used when the soft tissue inside a tooth has become inflamed, damaged, or infected. Rather than removing the entire tooth, endodontic treatment focuses on treating its interior so the natural tooth can remain in place.
Here is a closer look at the process, including how dentists clean the tooth, what materials they use, and how the tooth is restored afterward.
What Does a Dentist Do During a Root Canal?
Before treatment begins, the dentist examines the tooth and may take dental X-rays to better understand its roots and surrounding structures. The exact treatment may vary based on the tooth and its condition.
Numbing the Tooth
The first step usually involves numbing the area with local anesthesia. This helps keep the patient comfortable while the dentist works on the tooth.
Once the tooth is numb, the dentist creates a small opening that provides access to its inner space.
Removing Damaged Tissue
Inside a healthy tooth is the dental pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and other soft tissue. This area can become inflamed or infected because of deep decay, cracks, injuries, or other dental problems.
The dentist carefully removes the infected pulp and other damaged pulp tissue. The space being treated includes the pulp chamber and root canals that extend into the roots of the tooth.
This soft tissue helped support the tooth while it was developing. A fully developed tooth can generally continue functioning after this tissue is removed.
What Do Dentists Use to Clean Root Canals?
After removing the damaged tissue, the dentist uses small dental instruments and cleaning solutions to reach the narrow spaces inside the roots.
During this part of the root canal procedure, the dentist cleans and shapes the canals so they can be properly sealed. Cleaning helps remove remaining tissue and debris from areas that may be difficult to reach with ordinary dental tools.
Because every tooth has a different root structure, the amount of time needed for this step can vary.
What Do Dentists Fill Root Canals With?
Once the canals have been cleaned and prepared, they need to be sealed. So, what do dentists fill root canals with?
Dentists commonly use gutta-percha, a flexible dental filling material designed for this purpose. It is placed into the prepared canals along with a sealer to close the space.
Sealing the canals is an important part of protecting the treated tooth after the inside has been cleaned.
What Do Dentists Put in Root Canal Teeth After Treatment?
What happens on top of the tooth depends on how much healthy tooth structure remains and the dentist’s treatment plan.
In some cases, a temporary filling is placed to close the opening until the tooth can receive its final restoration. Later, a permanent filling or dental crown may be recommended.
A crown can provide additional protection when a tooth has lost significant structure. Your dentist will explain which restoration is appropriate for your individual situation.
Caring for Your Tooth After Treatment
Some tenderness may occur after treatment, but recovery varies from person to person. Follow the care instructions provided by your dental professional and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the tooth until the final restoration is complete.
Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits also remain important for your overall oral health. A root canal treats the inside of a specific tooth, but the tooth still needs routine care afterward.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how root canal treatment works can make the process feel more straightforward. The dentist accesses the inside of the tooth, removes damaged tissue, cleans the root canals, seals the space, and restores the tooth.
If you have an infected tooth or another dental concern, an examination can help determine which treatment is appropriate for your individual needs.
Have a Painful Tooth Evaluated
Persistent tooth discomfort can have several possible causes, and treatment depends on what is happening inside and around the tooth. If you are experiencing dental pain or have been told you may need root canal treatment, contact an Emergency Dentist in Atlanta for an evaluation and to discuss your treatment options.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I drive myself home after a root canal?
Many patients can drive themselves home when only local anesthesia is used. If you receive sedation or another medication that affects alertness, you may need someone else to drive you. Follow the instructions provided by your dental team.
How long does a root canal appointment usually take?
The length of the appointment varies depending on the tooth, the number and shape of its canals, and the treatment needed. Your dentist can give you a better estimate after examining the tooth.
Can a root canal take more than one appointment?
Yes. Some treatments can be completed in one visit, while others may require additional appointments. The number of visits depends on the tooth’s condition and the complexity of its root system.
Can I eat after having a root canal?
Your dentist may recommend waiting until the numbness wears off before eating so you do not accidentally bite your cheek or tongue. You may also be advised to avoid chewing hard foods on the treated side until the tooth is fully restored.
Does every root canal tooth need a crown?
Not always. The type of restoration depends on the tooth’s location, how much healthy structure remains, and how much pressure it handles when you bite. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate restoration after evaluating the tooth.
