What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is the process of cleaning the nerves (pulp) of a tooth that has decayed, broken, become inflamed, or been infected by microorganisms, and then disinfecting and filling the root canals of the tooth.
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Why is root canal treatment performed?
Root canal treatment is a procedure performed to prevent a patient from losing their healthy teeth, or to preserve the tooth by resolving various pain, lesion, and infection problems in the mouth and tooth roots.
In what situations is root canal treatment performed?
• Tooth decay and pain
• Dental infection
• Dental traumas
• Crack or fracture in the tooth
• Sensitivity to hot and cold in the teeth.
• When enamel does not form after a deep filling procedure
• When teeth are reduced in size for prosthetic applications, the nerves are exposed.
How is root canal treatment performed and what are its stages?
• X-ray: This is taken to provide a detailed view of the tooth roots and surrounding area. Diagnostic and evaluation examination.
• Anesthesia administration: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area near the tooth.
• Protecting the tooth area with a rubber dam: Various devices are placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva during treatment.
• Cleaning of decay, pulp, and nerves: Bacteria, decayed nerve tissue, and pulp are removed from the tooth.
• Disinfection of the root canal (washing process): Water or sodium hypochlorite is used regularly to clean debris from the tooth root.
• The treatment is completed with the filling and closing of the canals.
How long does root canal treatment take?
The duration of root canal treatment can vary from a single session to 2-3 sessions depending on the extent of decay and infection in the tooth. A single session can take 40-60 minutes if no additional procedures are needed; however, in cases of lesions, infection, or trauma, a break of several weeks may be necessary to allow the tooth to heal before treatment is completed.
How should a tooth be used after root canal treatment?
Since the nerves of the tooth are removed during root canal treatment, the tooth no longer performs its function in a lifeless state. Because the tooth is lifeless and lacks nerves, it becomes prone to fracture after a while.
It can also undergo discoloration. For this reason, to protect the tooth and for aesthetic reasons, your dentist may recommend a prosthesis. If a prosthetic treatment is applied to a root canal treated tooth, the tooth will last longer.
Things to Consider After Treatment
• Teeth cleaning
• Using dental floss
• Be careful with sugary, hard, and shelled foods.
• Annual routine checkups should not be neglected.
