How is a Root Canal Procedure Performed?

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How is a Root Canal Procedure Performed?

A root canal procedure, also known as endodontic therapy, is a routine dental treatment designed to save a natural tooth from severe infection or damage. The process focuses on removing inflamed or infected pulp from the soft inner chamber of the tooth to eliminate pain and prevent tooth loss.

The procedure generally follows these steps:

  1. Preparation: The dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring you feel little to no discomfort. For patients with anxiety, sedation options like nitrous oxide may be provided.
  2. Access and Cleaning: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber. Using specialized files and disinfecting solutions, the dentist removes the infected tissue and cleans the root canal system.
  3. Shaping and Filling: The canals are shaped to prepare them for filling. They are then sealed with a biocompatible, rubber-like material called gutta-percha to prevent future infection.
  4. Restoration: A temporary filling is placed initially. In a follow-up visit, a permanent crown is usually added to reinforce the tooth’s structure and restore full function for chewing.

Most procedures are completed in one to two visits, last between one and two hours, and have a success rate of over 90 percent.

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