Root canal treatment is a dental procedure aimed at saving a severely infected or damaged tooth. It's necessary when the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures.
Here's what typically happens during a root treatment:

  Diagnosis: The dentist examines the tooth, often aided by X-rays, to assess the extent of damage and infection.

  Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the tooth and the surrounding area, ensuring the procedure is painless.

  Access and Cleaning: The dentist creates an opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. The infected tissue is removed, and the inner chamber is cleaned and disinfected to remove bacteria and debris.

  Filling: After cleaning, the space left by the removed pulp is filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, to seal off the root canals and prevent further infection.

  Restoration: In most cases, a crown or filling is placed on the tooth to restore its strength and function. This step might be done during the same visit or at a follow-up appointment.

After the procedure, the tooth might feel sensitive for a few days, but this discomfort is typically managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Root canal treatment can save a tooth from extraction, allowing you to retain your natural tooth and restore normal biting and chewing functions.

It's important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, to prevent future dental issues.