What Is the Purpose of a Root Canal?

Preparing for an upcoming root canal? This procedure is one that often causes anxiety; however, modern-day dentistry has allowed for serious innovations in technology, thus ensuring positive results that are achieved with little to no discomfort involved. 

In general dentistry, a root canal falls under the category of restorative work. When a tooth is in bad shape, it may require a number of different restorative procedures, with a root canal being one of them. Keep reading to learn more about root canals and what the purpose of the procedure is. 

A guide to root canals

Below is an overview of root canals, including what they are and what the purpose is. This information can be quite helpful to someone who has been advised to undergo the procedure.

Root canal defined

A root canal is a procedure performed in general dentistry to remove any infected pulp from a tooth. This prevents any further infections from developing within the tooth. 

The purpose

The purpose of a root canal is to simply restore a tooth that is in bad shape. When a tooth becomes infected, it starts out minor, resulting in a small cavity in the outer layers. It can often be treated with a dental filling or a crown. However, when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected, it is likely that a root canal will be needed because once the roots become infected, they cannot be restored. Instead, they have to be removed. 

General dentists will administer or recommend a root canal when the infection is obviously rooted. A few ways to tell would be from an x-ray or based on symptoms. In some cases, the dentist may not be able to tell from either, in which they would move forward with a less invasive restorative option, like a crown or filling. However, after one of those procedures, there is a chance that symptoms can develop, which may be a result of the infection worsening. In this case, a root canal would be recommended as it would eliminate pain and ensure that the infection was rid of. 

The procedure

A root canal is done in a few simple steps, which are outlined below.

1. The mouth is numbed, ensuring that the patient cannot feel anything
2. Dental instruments are used to clear out the damaged parts of the infected tooth
3. The roots of the tooth are removed, leaving the tooth empty
4. The dentist cleans out the empty cavity, ensuring that nothing gets left behind
5. A synthetic material is used to fill the tooth
6. The dentist places a temporary dental crown, which will be replaced two weeks later by a permanent

Find out more from a general dentist

When needing a root canal or wanting more information, it is advised to talk with a general dentist in depth. Asking questions and going over any concerns about the procedure can be helpful in easing fears or anxieties. To learn more or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.desmoinesdentalcenter.com or call Des Moines Dental Center at (206) 408-8541 for an appointment in our Des Moines office.

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