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While root canals can be intimidating, this treatment is actually quite common for addressing damaged or decayed teeth. William U. Britton DDS, MAGD, knows that a number of patients in Chillicothe, OH, experience anxiety when it comes to root canals, which is why he strives to keep them informed about their procedure each step of the way. Once you know what to expect, it’s often easier to put your trust in a dental team.

A Step-By-Step Guide to the Root Canal Process

Numbing Agent Is Applied

A local anesthetic will be applied to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. Patients experience very little discomfort as a result, despite the common misconception that root canals are painful. In fact, the time before an infected tooth is treated can be far more painful than the procedure itself.  

Tooth Is Isolated

The dentist will need to access the inner nerve chamber of your tooth, which leaves it open to bacteria during the procedure. That’s why isolation is so important; using a device known as a dental dam, the dentist isolates the tooth to keep it free of additional contaminants.

Decayed Tissue Is Removed

root canalThe goal of a root canal is to remove damaged tissue and reshape the inner chamber. The dentist begins by drilling an access cavity into the tooth, then refiling the inner chamber to make way for the sealant. While it’s important that all infected tissue is removed, the dentist must leave enough to ensure the tooth remains structurally sound.

Tooth Is Sealed

A rubber material known as gutta percha will be placed into the tooth to seal it—this keeps out bacteria and ensures the tooth is stable. A temporary filling will be placed until your dental team determines which option works best for you. Some patients receive a permanent filling, while others are fitted with a crown, which is a cap that goes on the top of the tooth to seal it.

As a trusted Chillicothe dentist, William U. Britton DDS, MAGD, will help guide patients through their root canal treatments. He also provides general dentistry procedures, including annual checkups and cleanings. Call (740) 772-2225 today to schedule your appointment at this local practice. You can also visit his website to access a dental hygiene FAQ.

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