Our teeth comprise three layers, and the innermost layer is called the pulp. The pulp contains the nerves and vessels of the teeth. When the tooth decay or cavity is limited to the outer two layers of the teeth, it can be restored with a filling. However, when the innermost layer gets involved, there is immense pain. Root canal treatment is suggested when the pulp is involved. .

What is root canal treatment? – Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment, or RCT, removes the infected pulp and cleans the canal space. Once the thorough cleaning and disinfection is done, we fill the tooth. The tooth is filled with a biocompatible dental sealer. The purpose is to prevent the reinfection.

Root canal treatment can be done in a single or multiple sittings. The total number of sittings required depends on the severity of the infection. The whole process is painless and is carried out under local anesthesia. There is no pain or discomfort throughout the process. The information below will briefly discuss the indications and root canal treatment process-

Why do we need RCT?

Cavity

The most typical indication of root canal treatment is tooth damage. Dental caries start from the outside and spread towards the pulp. RCT is needed when the nerves and vessels become infected. It is essential to treat the tooth promptly as the infection may spread. Once the infection starts spreading, it can damage the surrounding tissues. Once the surrounding supporting tissues get involved, the tooth becomes mobile. Tooth mobility can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Direct injury

Trauma or direct injury to the tooth severe enough to cause pulp damage is another indication of RCT. Sometimes, the tooth is not fractured but will turn dark or black with time. This is another sign of root canal treatment. It is important to note that there might not be any pain, but the tooth turning black with a history of trauma necessitates an RCT procedure.

The RCT Procedure

The first and foremost step is the consultation with our experts at Odontocare Dental Clinic. Here, you can discuss all your queries regarding the procedure. Our team will examine your tooth both clinically and radiologically. Based on the diagnoses, a customized treatment plan is formulated. It is crucial to judge the eligibility of the root canal treatment based on the prognosis. The severity of infection is determined by the digital X-rays we take for proper diagnosis. Once the treatment plan is customized, the total number of sittings will be explained to you. The actual process starts once you are satisfied with what we are planning. We always believe in transparency and explaining every detail to the patient. The actual procedure starts with the anesthesia. It is a local anesthesia, which means only the tooth involved is made numb, along with its surrounding areas. The total duration of anesthesia is very short, but you can resume your routine after the RCT. There is no downtime and no restrictions involved. Once the tooth is anesthetized, we clean the cavity by removing the infected portions. Once the canal space is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, it is filled with a dental sealer. The main part of RCT is cleaning and disinfection. Sealing the canal space is done to prevent reinfection. The aftercare of the tooth involves the maintenance of regular oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily and flossing is all you need to do. Also, make sure you attend the follow-up visits with our team at Odontocare Dental Clinic

What after RCT?

Dental crowns are suggested after root canal treatment. It is essential to protect the tooth structure once the treatment is done. Dental crowns or tooth caps help restore the tooth structure and thus prevent fracture. However, the dental crown is not compulsory in all cases, and a permanent restoration is sufficient to restore the tooth.

How long does RCT last?

Maintaining adequate oral hygiene is vital to prevent food debris and plaque accumulation around the tooth, reducing the risk of reinfection. Root canal treatment is designed to last a lifetime with proper care and regular follow-ups.

Root Canal Treatment Benefits

RCT aims to relieve the pain by removing the infected portion of the tooth and cleaning the root canal space.

Root canal treatment relieves teeth sensitivity cases that do not respond to other treatments.

The root canal procedure preserves the natural tooth by eliminating the need for extraction.

A root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime with proper care and regular follow-ups. RCT thus ensures a long-lasting, durable, and effective solution.

How long does it last?

The total time duration required depends on your initial state of misalignment. Based on the customized treatment plan, we can determine the duration needed for complete correction.

How many sittings does it need?

The first sitting is the consultation and impression-making. In the second sitting, you will be given the plates you will wear in a specific order. Our team schedules regular follow ups to monitor the progress of your case.

Is there any aftercare regime?

Since the plates can be removed, you must regularly brush and floss after removing them. Also, clean the plates when not in use and store them in the case provided. The plates can be cleaned with water and a soft brush. Do not use chemicals or abrasives to clean the aligners.

What after aligners?

Dental retainers are advised after aligner treatment. The newly moved teeth tend to relapse in their initial state. Retainers prevent this movement by holding the teeth in their new position.

How do we proceed further?

If you have misaligned teeth and are looking to straighten them. Book your appointment now and get a consultation with our smile experts at Odontocare Dental Clinic.