Millions of people in Britain undergo root canal treatment every year to save teeth that would otherwise be extracted. But how does this procedure preserve a tooth, how does it save your tooth, and why is it so essential?
Understanding Tooth Structure
A tooth has three main layers:
- Enamel – The hard outer layer.
- Dentin – A softer layer beneath the enamel.
- Pulp – The innermost part containing nerves and blood vessels.
Once a tooth fully develops, it can function without the pulp, nourished by surrounding tissues.
Causes of Tooth Infection
A tooth becomes infected when bacteria enter the pulp. Common causes include:
- Deep Cavities: Untreated cavities allow bacteria to penetrate the pulp.
- Trauma: Cracked or chipped teeth expose the pulp.
- Repeated Procedures: Multiple treatments can irritate the pulp.
- Advanced Gum Disease: Infection can spread from the gums to the pulp.
Infections in the pulp cause pain, swelling, and sometimes abscesses. If untreated, it can spread, causing severe complications.
Root Canal Procedure
A root canal eliminates the infection and saves the natural tooth. Here’s how it works:
- Diagnosis: X-rays and scans assess the infection and canal structure.
- Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed to ensure comfort.
- Accessing the Tooth: The dentist removes decay and drills into the crown.
- Removing Infected Pulp: The infected pulp is extracted, and the interior is cleaned.
- Shaping and Filling: The canals are disinfected, shaped, and filled with gutta-percha to prevent reinfection.
- Crowning: A temporary filling or crown protects the tooth until a permanent crown is placed.
Why Keep the Tooth?
Pulling the tooth might seem easier, but saving it has long-term benefits:
- Preservation: A natural tooth functions better than replacements.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Root canals save the need for expensive implants or dentures.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Keeping your natural tooth maintains your smile.
What Happens After?
Post-treatment, a crown is placed to restore the tooth’s strength. Crowns mimic natural teeth and can last for years.
Myths About Root Canals
- Painful: Modern techniques make root canals similar to getting a filling.
- Tooth Failure: Proper care ensures long-term success.
- Extraction is Better: Retaining the natural tooth is almost always preferable.
Conclusion
A root canal is an effective, long-term solution for saving a tooth that might otherwise need extraction. With advances in dental techniques, the root canal procedure is more comfortable and reliable than ever. Schedule your root canal treatment at Bespoke Dental Fulham to save your tooth.