How Do Root Canals Work?

Root canals have a reputation for being a dreaded dental procedure. But, here’s the truth: they’re not as scary as they sound! IIn fact, a root canal can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. It can also help you maintain your natural smile. At Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, CA, we want to demystify the root canal process so you can feel more comfortable if you ever need one. Let’s take a closer look at how root canals work and why they’re such an essential part of dental care.

What is a Root Canal, Anyway?

A root canal is a treatment designed to repair and save a tooth that’s badly decayed or infected. When the soft tissue inside the tooth, called the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause severe pain, sensitivity. It may even lead to an abscess if left untreated. The goal of a root canal is to remove the damaged pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, and seal it up to prevent further issues. It’s like giving your tooth a fresh start!

Step-By-Step: How a Root Canal is Done

Numbing the Area: Before starting the procedure, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. You won’t feel any pain during the treatment—just like getting a regular filling.

Creating an Access Point: Your dentist will make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the damaged pulp and root canals. Using special tools, the infected or dead pulp is carefully removed.

Cleaning and Shaping The Canals: Once the pulp is gone, the root canals are cleaned and shaped to ensure no bacteria or debris are left behind. This is a crucial step to prevent future infections.

Filling the Canals: After cleaning, the empty canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This flexible rubber-like substance helps seal the canals and provides stability to the tooth’s structure.

Sealing and Restoring the Tooth: The access hole is then sealed with a temporary filling until a permanent restoration can be placed. In most cases, you’ll need a dental crown to protect and strengthen the tooth. A tooth that’s had a root canal can be more vulnerable to cracking, so a crown adds extra support.

Why Not Just Pull the Tooth?

Some patients might wonder why they shouldn’t just extract a tooth instead of having a root canal. The answer? Keeping your natural teeth is always the best option for long-term oral health. When you lose a tooth, it can cause the surrounding teeth to shift, affect your bite, and even lead to bone loss in the jaw. A root canal lets you preserve your natural tooth and avoid these complications.

Gentle Root Canal Therapy at Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, CA

While root canals might not be your idea of a good time, they’re a straightforward and relatively comfortable procedure when performed by a skilled team. Dr. Serrano and the team at Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, CA, use modern techniques and gentle care to make root canal treatment as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you have tooth pain or think you might need a root canal, contact us today. We’re here to help keep your smile healthy and pain-free!

Categorised in: Root Canal Therapy