The root canal is a narrow channel at the center of a tooth that protects sensitive nerve tissue—known as dental pulp. An infected or injured tooth may compromise the canal, putting dental patients at risk for further damage and severe pain. Fortunately, dentists can correct this common oral health issue with root canal therapy. During this procedure, the affected root canal is closed to preserve the tooth and keep it healthy. If you need this procedure, here’s what you can expect throughout the treatment. 

Steps in a Root Canal Process

1. Application of Local Anesthetic

Your dental team will apply a local anesthetic to the treatment area. This medication will numb the surrounding tissue and restrict nerve activity so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.

2. Access Hole Creation

Your provider will isolate the affected tooth with a dental dam and use a small drill to create an access hole in the enamel. The hole may be located on the crown or the backside of the tooth.

3. Removal of Dental Pulp

The dentist will use special tools to gently remove dental pulp from the root canal through the access hole and irrigate the canal to clear away infectious material.

4. Sealing

Once the root canal is clear, a rubbery latex substance—known as gutta-percha—is applied. This material hardens to seal the canal and prevent further infection and decay. It also helps preserve the tooth’s strength so you can bite and chew with confidence.

5. Restoration

After treatment, the tooth must be restored. If only a small amount of tooth material was removed, your dentist might restore your tooth with a simple filling. However, if a sizable portion of a tooth is missing, you may need a dental crown.  

6. Recovery

As an outpatient procedure that takes about 90 minutes to complete, root canals don’t involve complex recovery. The treatment area will likely be a little sore after the procedure. Your dentist will provide aftercare instructions to reduce discomfort and allow the tooth to heal, advising you to use over-the-counter pain medications to reduce swelling and to avoid chewing with the affected side of your mouth.

When you’re troubled by a toothache, Ed Struss Family Dentistry of Lexington, KY, offers the advanced care you need to get relief and protect your oral health. Using digital dental X-rays to diagnose problem areas—such as infected dental pulp—this trusted and caring dentist gently repairs and restores teeth. Visit this family dental clinic online to learn more about their services, or call (859) 278-7434 to schedule a convenient appointment.