Root canal treatment is a procedure we've all heard of; it's an important part of dental treatments. But when should it be done? And does it have advantages that would lead a dentist to choose it? Follow us in this article from L'ORO Clinic, where we provide you with detailed information regarding this procedure.
What is a root canal treatment?
It is a procedure performed to treat inflammation and infection in the inner part of the tooth, known as the dental pulp. The inner pulp is responsible for nourishing the tooth due to its blood vessels and nerves, and it is connected to the tooth roots that extend into the jawbone.
The goal of this procedure is to eliminate infection and inflammation by removing this pulp through Nerve Extraction then filling it.
Learn more about Causes of dental nerve inflammation and its most important symptoms
Why is a root canal performed on a molar?
When bacteria completely penetrate and destroy a molar by reaching its inner part, an infection occurs in the inner pulp, which can then spread to the root canal inside it. This leads the dentist to choose root canal treatment as a solution to the problem instead of extracting the molar.
Root canal treatment may be a solution for these problems, one of which you might be suffering from:
- Severe tooth decay where the molar is still suitable for filling.
- A fractured molar where a filling can be used without extracting the molar.
- A fracture in the molar's crown.
- An old filling coming out of place and the desire to replace it.
- A gum problem or disease that led to a problem with the molar.
- An injury that affected one of the teeth.
Root canal treatment is the solution to these problems because it prevents the infection from spreading. Its spread leads to a dental abscess, which can destroy the jaw and teeth.
Root Canal Procedure
There are a number of steps that are followed, starting with preparation for the procedure through an examination that the dentist begins with, identifying symptoms, and perhaps the dentist needs to take X-rays to assess the condition of the molar and the extent of the infection.
After evaluation and determining that a root canal for the molar is the solution, the dentist will follow these steps to treat the problem:
First step
The dentist will anesthetize the specific area where the molar to be filled is located, then the dentist will place a thin, flexible rubber sheet inside the mouth.
This sheet is responsible for covering the entire mouth and isolating it, except for the affected molar, to maintain the cleanliness of the area and prevent the spread of infection to another location.
Second step
In this step, the dental drill comes into play, which the dentist will use to make a hole in the surface of the molar. This hole will help him reach the tooth pulp to remove it, and the dentist will ensure a hole is made inside the molar to completely remove the pulp.
The area inside the molar is also sterilized using antibiotics. The goal of this step is to completely remove the infection and ensure there are no remaining traces of infection, as the root canal must be completely clean and in a condition that facilitates the filling process.
Third step
This step is where the dentist places a filling that seals the root canal. This filling may be temporary, placed by the dentist for some time to be removed in the next session and replaced with a permanent root canal filling.
Fourth step
If the treated and filled molar is severely damaged and leaving it with only a filling might cause future problems or fractures, the dentist may then suggest placing a crown to preserve and protect the molar.
Advantages of Root Canal Treatment
This procedure has several advantages, most notably that it helps in:
Preserving the tooth
One of its most prominent benefits is that it helps the natural tooth retain its external shape and structure, meaning the tooth will perform its usual function and you will not need to extract the molar, which would create a gap where the molar was and require replacement with an artificial one.
Eliminating infection
The primary goal of the procedure is to remove the infection, and removing it means preserving the remaining part of the tooth while reducing the chances of the infection spreading to another area, whether to adjacent teeth or the jawbone.
Eliminating pain
After the procedure, the nerve is removed, so you will not feel the pain that resulted from nerve inflammation and infection.
Risks of root canal treatment
In addition to common symptoms such as mild pain, discomfort, or even swelling, there are a number of problems associated with this procedure. Despite its benefits, it can cause some problems, including:
- Damage to the tissues surrounding the tooth, affecting oral health.
- Potential damage to the nerves of teeth adjacent to the treated tooth.
- Potential for infection due to remnants of a previous infection.
- Tooth discoloration after some time following the procedure.
- Potential for tooth fracture, especially if the tooth is already worn out and weak.
Root canal prices
Are you wondering How much does a root canal cost in Saudi Arabia? You should know that the answer to your question varies depending on a number of factors, including the dentist's skill, the clinic's location, the materials used for the root canal, and so on. However, we can say that the average price can range from 1500 SAR to 5000 SAR, and it may be less or more depending on the case.
Remember that a root canal is a preventive procedure to save the tooth from extraction, and its advantages are what lead the dentist to choose it as a solution to treat an infection that has reached the inner part of the tooth. It is a procedure that requires skill.
For this reason, we advise you to choose L'ORO experts, as they are the most skilled and experienced in the field of dentistry due to their skills, experience, and qualifications that enable them to deal with any problem, so Book your appointment now.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions does a root canal take?
The procedure usually takes two sessions, one for placing the temporary filling and the other for placing the permanent filling. However, there are cases where the procedure is done in only one session.
What is the difference between a regular filling and a root canal filling?
The fundamental difference is that a regular filling is used to treat mild, painful cavities that have not reached the inner pulp, have not caused infection, and have not exposed the nerve. The other type, however, involves filling the root canal itself and removing the nerve.
How long does root canal pain last?
The pain only lasts for a few days or less, as you should fully recover in less than a week.
When can I eat after a root canal filling?
You can eat several hours after the procedure, but it is preferable to eat soft foods for several days after the procedure.
Does decay return after a root canal filling?
It is possible for the tooth to develop decay, which is somewhat common if you are someone who does not prioritize cleaning your teeth.
How do I know if a tooth needs a root canal filling?
You can tell by the pain you feel, especially if the tooth is completely intact and healthy from the outside, along with a sensitivity to hot and cold foods or those containing sugar, or if you feel pain when pressing on the tooth.