When your dentist says you need a root canal, it’s understandable if you feel a wave of dread. Root canals have a notorious reputation for being painful and complicated. However, modern techniques have made them far less intimidating. Understanding what your dentist will do can help ease your nerves before your procedure.

Numbing and Accessing

The first step your dentist will take is to thoroughly numb the area they’ll be working on. Once your tooth and gums are fully numb, your dentist will gain access to the soft tissue inside your tooth. This tissue contains blood vessels and nerves. They may drill an access hole through an existing crown or the back of a tooth to reach this tissue. Your dentist will take care to make sure you are fully numb before drilling into your tooth. Let your dentist know if you feel any discomfort during this process so they can administer more numbing medication.

Cleaning and Shaping

Next, your dentist carefully cleans out the diseased, injured, or dead pulp tissue. They will then shape and sanitize the root canal system that holds this tissue. This shaping process essentially creates a customized filling station out of your unique tooth roots. Your dentist uses special tiny instruments to accomplish this crucial step without damaging your tooth structure.

Filling and Sealing

Finally, your dentist masterfully fills and seals your newly clean and hollowed-out root canal system to create a closed space. This seals off your tooth interior from future infection. Typically, this requires a rubber-like material called gutta-percha along with cement or another sealing agent. Many dentists allow some healing time before finalizing a crown or filling over a root canal. This ensures your tooth and roots are sound before sealing the access opening. While a root canal may sound intense, remember your dentist is an expert at ensuring it proceeds as painlessly as possible. Ask them beforehand what to expect, and follow any special care instructions they provide you afterward. According to the School of Dental Medicine, annually, an estimated 15 million root canals are completed. Though root canals have an unpleasant reputation, there’s no need to worry – your dentist will take good care of you. If you are experiencing dental pain, or you know you need a root canal, reach out to Encino Friendly Dental Center to schedule your procedure today.