What are the steps of Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment or RCT is a dental procedure aimed at treating infections or damage within the tooth’s pulp (the inner part of the tooth). Here are the typical steps involved:

1. Examination and X-rays:

The dentist examines the tooth, possibly taking X-rays to assess the extent of damage and identify the infected area.

2. Anesthesia:

Local anesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and the surrounding area, ensuring the patient doesn’t feel pain during the procedure.

3. Isolation:

A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva during the procedure.

4. Access opening:

The dentist creates a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.

5. Cleaning and shaping:

Specialized instruments are used to remove the infected or damaged pulp tissue from the pulp chamber and root canals. The canals are then shaped to prepare them for filling.

6. Irrigation:

The canals are flushed with an antimicrobial solution to remove any remaining debris and disinfect the area.

7. Filling:

Once the canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material, often a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha, to seal the space and prevent further infection.

8. Restoration:

After the root canal, the access opening created in the crown is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling. In many cases, a dental crown is placed over the tooth to provide strength and protection, especially if the tooth was extensively damaged.

9. Follow-up:

The dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor the healing process and ensure the tooth is functioning properly.

Each case can differ based on the severity of infection or damage to the tooth. Post-treatment care often involves proper oral hygiene, and patients might experience some discomfort, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

It’s crucial to note that while root canal treatment has a reputation for being painful, advancements in anesthesia and technology have made the procedure much more comfortable than it used to be.