What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root Canal Treatment is the treatment for the root structure of your tooth.
Anatomy of teeth
The top part of your tooth which is visible in the mouth is called the crown. It has an outer hard layer of enamel and a second softer layer with fine nerve endings in it called the dentin. The two layers together enclose and protect the nerve or pulp tissue which provides strength to the tooth. The nerve is sensitive to changes in temperature and pressure. The nerve tissue narrows down and continues down the entire length of the root and is housed in a narrow canal termed the root canal. Teeth with multiple roots have a nerve running in each of the canals.
The dentist verifies that the tooth is infected by means of clinical tests and an X-ray. A local anesthetic is given to numb the tooth and the entire nerve tissue is removed. The inside of the canal is shaped and then an inert material, the most common being gutta perch is used to seal the empty canal because it does not allow bacteria to grow. The procedure takes 1-3 sessions.
When do I need Root Canal Treatment?
When the tooth is healthy, the presence of the nerve is not felt. If the tooth is attacked by bacteria from a cavity or from gum disease or a strong biting force, the affected nerve starts to deteriorate and may gradually become ‘non-vital ‘or die.
Depending on the status or stage of the infection, the tooth may experience pain when biting and become sensitive to hot or cold liquids or food. As the infection progresses the bacteria that are now trapped inside the root start to multiply and release toxins and all of this starts up the process of inflammation or swelling. The tooth being a hard, closed structure, pressure is created, and a severe tooth ache develops.
At other times, a childhood injury to the tooth can slowly show symptoms several years later with a change in color of the tooth with some accompanying discomfort.