What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is the process of cleaning and treating the damaged portion of a tooth’s inner part (known as the pulp, a soft tissue) due to infection, decay, or injury. This procedure aims to save the tooth and contribute to the overall health of the teeth in the mouth.

When is it Performed?

Root canal treatment may be performed in the following situations:

1. When tooth decay reaches the pulp layer and causes an infection.
2. When the pulp is damaged due to a dental trauma.
3. When decay occurs under a large filling, affecting the pulp.
4. When there is a root canal infection (abscess) in the tooth.
5. When there is inflammation in the surrounding bone of the tooth.

When is it Not Performed?

Root canal treatment may not be possible in certain situations, and the tooth may need to be extracted. These situations include:

1. When the root structure of the tooth is severely weakened and damaged, making root canal treatment unsuccessful.
2. When the surrounding bone tissue is not strong enough to support the tooth in place.
3. When the infection in the pulp has spread extensively and become uncontrollable.
4. When repeated infections occur despite previous treatments.

Is There Pain After Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is usually performed under anesthesia, so there is no pain during the procedure. However, after the treatment, there might be mild pain and sensitivity around the tooth as the surrounding tissues heal. These discomforts are temporary and generally subside with time. If the pain is severe or persists, it is important to consult the dentist.

What is the Difference Between Filling and Root Canal Treatment?

Dental filling involves cleaning the decayed or damaged part of the tooth and filling it with a dental material. This procedure is typically performed on the outer surface of the tooth and restores its shape and function.

On the other hand, root canal treatment involves cleaning and treating the pulp tissue located inside the tooth. It is used when the pulp is inflamed or damaged. Root canal treatment prevents the need for tooth extraction by treating the root canals of the tooth. The procedure is performed by accessing the inside of the tooth.

I hope this information helps you understand root canal treatment better. However, keep in mind that treatment options should be evaluated individually for each case, and an appropriate treatment plan should be formulated by a dentist.