A root canal treatment is performed by a dentist, and it aims to support a patient’s oral health and relieve any discomfort they may be experiencing. While this is a safe, standard procedure, some people may have questions about it. If you have a root canal treatment scheduled, here’s a guide to help you get informed.

What to Know About Root Canal Treatments

What’s a root canal?

A root canal is the portion of your tooth located deep into the enamel. It’s a small, narrow passageway that branches from the center of the tooth to the end of the root. The hollow center is called the pulp chamber, and pulp fills the canal. Front teeth usually only have one canal and one root, while back molars can have three or four canals and two to three roots.

When is the treatment needed?

The procedure is used to save the integrity of the soft tissue inside your tooth. If the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, it can lead to pain and potential abscess. Damage to the pulp can be caused by injury, faulty crowns, cracked or chipped teeth, and decay.

What happens during the procedure?

After the affected area is numbed, the dentist will make a tiny hole in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and canal. Then, the diseased tissue is removed, and the area is disinfected to the ends of the root. The clean canals and chambers are filled with a biocompatible material and then sealed. The initial hole will likely receive a filling to close it, and depending on the amount of damage to the tooth, may need a full-coverage crown after recovery.

Is extracting the tooth a better option?

While extracting the tooth may seem like a quick option, some patients experience oral issues due to the new gap in their smile. Without an implant, teeth will shift, and bone tissue won’t stimulate growth, giving the face a sunken appearance. Saving the tooth via root canal treatment will prevent these issues and give your tooth another chance to be healthy.

If you think you need to have this treatment done, contact Stephanie ML Wong, DMD, in Honolulu, HI. This skilled dentist and her team will assess your oral situation and make recommendations on the best way to minimize discomfort or restore your smile. View their full list of services online, or call (808) 732-3072 to schedule an appointment.