What Is a Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment involves removing the pulp tissue from inside a tooth. You might be surprised to learn that teeth are actually hollow! The “pulp” refers to the soft tissue—made up of nerves and blood vessels—that fills this inner space.
This anatomical design of teeth is what makes toothaches so very painful. The hard structure of a tooth completely surrounds the pulp tissue, leaving no room for the pulp to increase in size. Soft tissue in other areas of the body can simply swell outward when inflamed or infected. When something causes infection or inflammation of the pulp, the pulp can only build in pressure within that hard chamber. This leads to sharp, shooting, or throbbing pains that are severe in intensity.
What Does a Root Canal Treatment Do?
Root canal treatment relieves toothaches by removing inflamed or infected nerves and blood vessels from inside the affected tooth. The procedure also cleans the inner chamber to prevent future infections. Once the soft tissue is removed and the area is thoroughly cleaned, the dentist fills the space with a biocompatible material, sealing the tooth to protect it from further bacterial contamination.
Many people refer to “root canal treatment” simply as a “root canal.” The name comes from the anatomy of the tooth—the hollow space inside each root is called a root canal. Since some teeth have multiple roots, a root canal treatment may involve cleaning and sealing up to four individual canals.
What Does the Root Canal Treatment Process Involve?
Root canal treatment includes a few steps that make it different from other dental procedures. While we use the same local anesthetic to keep you comfortable and pain-free, what sets a root canal apart are the following key steps:
Rubber Dam Isolation
To maintain a sterile environment, your dentist will isolate the tooth with a rubber dam. This barrier keeps saliva and bacteria away from the treatment area, while also preventing dental materials and instruments from entering the rest of your mouth.
X-Ray Evaluation
Throughout the root canal procedure, your dentist will take periodic x-rays to monitor progress, assess the shape and length of the canals, and ensure the filling material is placed correctly.
During the treatment itself, you may feel some light pressure or pushing. The dentist uses tiny files to clean the inside of the tooth, and you may notice a sensation similar to filing a fingernail. You should not feel any pain during the procedure.
What Should I Expect After a Root Canal Treatment?
In many cases, your dentist will complete the root canal by placing a temporary filling over the sealed canal. In other situations, a permanent filling may be placed right away, followed by preparation for a crown. Since a root canal removes the tooth’s internal fluid supply, the tooth can become brittle and more prone to cracking. That’s why a crown is typically recommended after root canal treatment—to provide full coverage and protect the tooth from future damage.
It’s normal to feel some tenderness or discomfort at the treatment site right after a root canal. If there’s an infection around the tooth, your dentist may prescribe oral antibiotics. Following all post-operative care instructions and taking any prescribed medications as directed is essential for proper healing and the best outcome.
Revitalize Your Smile Today
Schedule your restorative dentistry consultation at Trailhead Dental - Spokane. Our expert team will assess your needs, discuss treatment options, and create a personalized plan to restore your oral health and confidence. Call us or book online now.
