What Is a Root Canal?

While the term “root canal” frightens many, there really is no need to stress out if your dentist tells you that you are going to need this treatment. Today. Millions of people have them done and the procedure itself has been all but perfected to ensure less time in the chair and a successful procedure.

Under the white enamel of your tooth is a hard layer called dentin. Below that there is softer tissue called pulp. Within the pulp are blood vessels, connective tissue, and nerves. When there is extensive decay, that is the area the dentist will remove from the tooth. Because an adult tooth is capable of being nourished by the surrounding tissue, this process is used to save a tooth that might otherwise have to be pulled.

Why Have a Root Canal?

For some, the thought of sitting in the dentist chair to go through this procedure is far scarier than having a tooth pulled. However, there are several benefits to keeping your natural teeth. Some of those benefits are:

• Natural appearance
  
• Normal biting force
  
• Normal biting sensations
  
• Efficient chewing
  
• Protection of the other teeth from overstraining or excessive wear
  

Step-by-Step Route Canal Procedure

1. The dentist will isolate the tooth having the root canal performed on it by using a “dam” to keep the tooth dry during the procedure.
   
2. Next, the dentist will drill a hole down to the pulp chamber. This creates the opening for the dentist to work on the tooth. As part of this procedure, the dentist also removes any decayed or loose pieces of the tooth. You will have been numbed for this process, but you will still feel the vibrations of the equipment being used. The sounds are often what “freak” people out, but rest assured, you will be fine.
   
3. Once the dentist has “cleaned” out the tooth, he or she will measure the length of the tooth so he or she knows the confines in which he or she has to work. This can be done with an x-ray or an electronic device.
   
4. Now that the doctor has measured the tooth, he or she can begin the cleaning process and the reshaping of the tooth. All of the nerve tissue is removed, along with any debris or bacteria that remains in the tooth. Once everything has been removed, the dentist will shape the tooth, meaning enlarging or flaring the canal for the filing and sealing that is to be performed.
   
5. The dentist will use several files during the shaping of the tooth until the canal size is as needed. Once the shaping is completed, the canal is then filled and sealed. In some cases, the dentist may want to delay this part of the procedure for a week or two.
   
6. After the tooth has been sealed, a temporary filling will be placed. While the root canal is over at this point, there is still some additional work to be done. More than likely, this will have already been discussed with your dentist, but an example would be to have a crown or bridge placed after the root canal, depending upon the teeth around the root canal area.
   

Root canals can be expensive and it is unlikely your insurance will cover the entire procedure. If you want to save money, you can sign up for New Hampshire discount dental plans that can save you as much as 20 percent off your dental bills. For more information, please click here.