What is Root Canal Therapy?

Chances are that most adults know of root canal treatment, but may not know what it involves. Root canal therapy is an extremely effective way to repair cracked or decaying teeth and prevent tooth loss. Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen of Phoenix Endodontic Group explains how this procedure can help you restore a bad tooth and why you shouldn’t be fearful of a root canal.

Gone are the days when root canal treatment was a major ordeal that left a patient in pain. With today’s methods and technology, many patients report minimal discomfort and compare it to having a filling done.

During the procedure, the infected pulp of the tooth is removed, the inside cleaned thoroughly, and the tooth refilled. This process restores the structure of the tooth. Any discomfort from the repair is mild and can be easily managed by using over the counter pain medication. As well, the materials used in the procedure have changed over the years. At one point in time, the material used to fill the roots was silver. Now it is gutta percha with antibacterial sealer, says Dr. Allen.

With time and experience, Endodontists have developed best practices to minimize complications, especially for patients who have severe symptoms or an unusual anatomy. We now use a rubber dam screen for all root canal procedures. This is to isolate the tooth so no bacteria from saliva can get in the tooth, as well as keep all instruments and disinfectants from falling into the mouth and possibly down the throat, Dr. Allen mentions.

Additionally, microscopes with optimal lighting are used to clean out the tooth roots more thoroughly, she states. All of these accumulated improvements equate to a better outcome, less risk of complications, improved comfort, and a great likelihood that your root canal treatment will be successful.

Once you’ve noticed a problem, it’s important to get treatment right away. Once the tooth has irreversible pulpitis or necrosis, the problem will not go away on its own, Dr. Allen says. Acting quickly improves your odds of a successful repair. For additional questions on root canal treatment or to schedule your appointment, contact Phoenix Endodontic Group today!