Dental Surgeons of today absolutely believe in the motto ‘TEETH FOR LIFE’. This can be achieved by, commitment to good dental hygiene and ensuring regular check-ups are done.
Sensitivity and pain occur in cases where tooth decay makes its way through to the nerve of the tooth. A hard knock to a tooth can also result in the nerve being injured or infected.
Successful root canal treatment enables teeth to be retained. Root canal treatment is used to treat diseases and conditions of the tooth’s pulp. The dental pulp is found at the center of the tooth and within the roots of each tooth. It contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, all of which give vitality to the tooth. Vitality is responsible for the sensation felt when we complain of tooth sensitivity. A lack of vitality is normally the first indication that there is something is wrong with our teeth. The most common signs and symptoms of a troubled pulp is when the tooth becomes sensitive to hot foods and liquids. This can also be followed by a dull or strong ache which can last for minutes or even hours.
Root canal treatment has often been thought of as a very traumatic experience. In reality, though, undergoing a root canal procedure is no more distressing than getting a filling done.
Depending on the complexity of the case, two to three sittings may be required to complete this treatment. The dentist will begin by administering a local anesthetic, followed by making a small aperture in the tooth to reach the root canal system and the damaged pulp. Using very fine dental tools called files, the dentist will remove the pulp and will clean and enlarge the root canal system. The dentist will continue to clean and shape the canals, preparing them for sealing with a sterile inert rubber material, which will prevent future re-infections.
With appropriate care and attention, a root canal treatment may last for many years without any major concerns.
