Root canal treatment is applied to clean and repair decay or infection that occurs within the root canal of a tooth. When the pulp, also known as the dental pulp, becomes infected, it is removed from the canal, and the resulting space is thoroughly disinfected. Subsequently, the space is filled and sealed to prevent the recontamination by bacteria.

Root canal treatment is one of the most commonly recommended treatment methods. There is no need to worry about the root canal treatment process, which provides highly successful results in resolving dental issues and restoring the tooth.

 

How is root canal treatment performed?

The part of the tooth called pulp is removed during root canal treatment. The removal of this soft tissue does not have a negative impact on dental health. Even in cases where the pulp is removed, the surrounding tissues continue to nourish the tooth, so the goal is to preserve the natural tooth rather than extracting it by targeting the removal of the pulp.

Despite the common belief that root canal treatment is a painful procedure, there is no need to worry about experiencing pain during the treatment when it is performed by an expert dentist. Root canal therapy is a treatment method that provides fast and effective results compared to many other procedures. Generally, the procedure is performed under the influence of local anesthesia, which allows access to the infected pulp through an opening in the tooth. Following the removal of the pulp, along with the bacteria causing the infection, the tooth is sealed, or depending on the extent of the infection, medication may be placed inside the tooth, followed by a temporary filling.

At the end of the treatment, the tooth is filled, preventing the formation and accumulation of new bacteria. In some cases, after root canal treatment, restorative procedures on the tooth may also be necessary.

 

What are the advantages of root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment has several advantages, including:

• Preferential Repair Over Extraction: Choosing to repair the tooth rather than extracting it is a key advantage. Root canal treatment allows for the preservation of the natural tooth structure.
• Maintenance of Natural Tooth Appearance: Root canal-treated teeth retain their natural appearance. This is important for both functional and aesthetic reasons,
• Prevention of Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Root canal treatment prevents damage to neighboring teeth that might occur if the infected tooth were extracted.
• Restoration of Natural Tooth Function: After root canal therapy and restoration with a crown, the treated tooth can regain its full functionality, allowing for biting and chewing as before.

Overall, root canal treatment offers a conservative and effective approach to saving a tooth that might otherwise be lost due to infection or extensive decay.

 

Is root canal treatment a painful procedure?

While there is a common belief that root canal treatment is a painful procedure, it is not as painful as commonly perceived. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, making it tolerable for even individuals with a low pain threshold. After the administration of local anesthesia, there may be some minor discomfort, but it is by no means as painful or agonizing as often feared.

Please note that the discomfort experienced during a root canal procedure is usually manageable and temporary. Patients should not be overly concerned about severe pain during the treatment.

What should be considered after root canal treatment?

The success of the root canal treatment process depends on the precautions taken by the patient to protect their tooth. The patient should avoid using the treated tooth as much as possible. Since the treatment does not significantly disrupt daily life, patients can usually resume their normal activities within a few hours after the procedure. However, after the treatment, it is advisable not to start consuming food and beverages immediately, and for at least 2 - 3 days, avoid substances that can cause sensitivity and discomfort in the teeth. In addition to these precautions, it is important to prioritize oral and dental health by brushing the teeth as recommended in terms of method and frequency. Similarly, dental floss and mouthwash should be used to support dental hygiene.

 

The signs indicating the necessity of root canal treatment are as follows:

If these symptoms are observed, it is advisable to visit a dentist as soon as possible, as they may indicate the need for root canal treatment.

• Irregularities and swellings in the gums.
• Gums that tend to swell or bleed immediately.
• Fractures that affect the tooth structure.
• Discomfort due to tooth sensitivity, which is one of the most commonly observed symptoms.