Root canal therapy is an endodontic treatment used for removing the infected pulp, nerve tissues, and decay from a tooth. Many people have apprehensions about getting a root canal procedure done, often because they believe it to be painful. If you choose the right Fairfield, ME family dentistry clinic, you don’t have much to worry about. For your help, we have further explained the root canal treatment procedure in detail below.

Why is root canal treatment required?

The inside of a tooth is made up of pulp, blood vessels, and connective tissues, which are no longer required once the tooth has developed. Tooth decay and injury are two common reasons that may trigger inflammation of the pulp. In order to save the infected tooth from extraction, your dentist may recommend doing a root canal treatment. 

Steps in root canal treatment

1. If you have pain in the infected tooth, your dentist will do a few x-rays to determine if root canal treatment is required. Once they have explained the details, your dentist will use a numbing cream near the infected tooth and inject a local anesthetic. Please note that you will be awake during the procedure, although there is unlikely to be any pain or discomfort. 
2. Once the anesthesia sets in, the dentist will create an opening on the top of the tooth to access the root canals. One tooth may have two or more canals. Using dental files, the dentist will then remove the infected pulp and clear out the canals. You may have to go back home and return for a second appointment. A temporary filling will be used to prevent food lodging. 
3. On the next appointment, your dentist may check again if there is any infection or decay left. They will then irrigate the canals and seal the tooth after using the necessary medications. You may have to take oral antibiotics for the next few days. Following root canal treatment, a crown is required to restore the full functionality of the tooth. 

Your dentist may ask you to return for a crown appointment. You may need two sittings to get the crown. During the first appointment, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth, while you will have the crown placed during the second appointment. 

In general, root canal treatment doesn’t have to be painful at all. In fact, when the infected pulp and tissues are removed, the existing pain will go away.