X-ray

When you visit your dentist and he or she suspects that you may require root canal procedure, the first thing that we will do is have you undergo an X-ray. This basically involves examining the existing X-rays to point out the areas that are affected by the decay as well as the extent of the decay. The X-ray will actually determine whether you need root canal treatment or not. It is important to point out that not all teeth problems require root canal treatment.

Anesthesia

Once it has been established that you need root canal treatment, the dentist will then administer local anesthesia to the affected tooth or teeth. Without anesthesia you will experience excruciating pain and the anesthesia is applied to reduce pain during the entire process. The anesthesia can last for few hours depending on the extent of the procedure.

Pulpectomy

Once the anesthesia is administered, an opening is made. This enables the dentist to remove the diseased tooth pulp. Once it is removed, the dentist thoroughly cleans the crown to completely eliminate bacteria that might be remaining there.

Filling

Once the bacteria are removed, the root canal is then filled and the tooth sealed with a filling. The inflamed tissue at the bottom end of the tooth usually heals naturally. Root canal treatments are usually successful and a tooth can actually survive for up to ten years after a canal treatment.

After Care

After root canal treatment, it is very important for you to properly care for your teeth. This will ensure that the wound heals without complications and the tooth maintains a healthy status. You need to avoid chewing hard foods, sugary foods, and very cold foods until when your treatment is complete. Maintain a good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth after every meal, give up smoking if you do, avoid consuming alcohol until when the treatment is complete and the wound is healed. You can ask your dentist for more advice on how to care for your teeth after root canal treatment.