When you experience discomfort and severe pain in your tooth, you may be curious if you need a root canal treatment. Your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment procedure if your tooth is experiencing swelling, gum infection, tenderness, gum bolls, severe pain, and sensitivity to cold and hot substances. This procedure is also known as Endodontic treatment. Your tooth is severely damaged but can be saved, so your dentist recommends a root canal. You do not like getting a procedure without knowing what to expect. You want to know exactly what happens during a root canal. Learn the steps so that you will be prepared for your procedure.

How a Root Canal is Performed Step by Step 

Step 1: Diagnosing the Infected Pulp

The process begins with a thorough examination by a dentist to determine if the pulp (innermost layer) of the tooth is infected or damaged. This may involve discussing any symptoms the patient is experiencing, such as tooth pain or sensitivity, and conducting diagnostic tests like X-rays. These tests help identify signs of infection or damage to the pulp, such as swelling, decay, or changes in the tooth’s appearance.

Step 2: Remove the Infected Pulp Inside Tooth

Once the infected or damaged pulp is confirmed, the dentist proceeds to remove it through a procedure called a root canal. After administering local anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort, the dentist creates a small access hole in the crown of the tooth. Special instruments are then used to carefully remove the infected pulp tissue from the pulp chamber and root canals. The dentist thoroughly cleans and shapes the root canals to prepare them for filling.

Step 3: Filling a New Root Filler

After the root canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material seals the canals, preventing bacteria from re-entering and causing reinfection. The access hole created in the crown of the tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling material to further protect against contamination.

Step 4: Restoring the Tooth

The final step in the root canal procedure is to restore the tooth’s structure and function. Depending on the extent of damage, this may involve placing a dental crown over the treated tooth. A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, providing strength, protection, and a natural appearance. The crown restores the tooth’s ability to chew and withstand normal biting forces. In some cases, a temporary restoration may be placed until the permanent crown is ready. By completing these steps, the root canal procedure effectively removes infection or damage from the tooth, preserves its structure, and restores its function, allowing the patient to maintain their natural tooth and oral health.