Stages of Root Canal Therapy and Aftercare

Your dentist usually recommends a root canal when your tooth is severely damaged and needs to be saved as soon as possible to prevent extraction. If you are someone who is soon going to get this procedure for yourself, then it will be helpful for you to know how things go. Keep reading to learn each step involved in the root canal procedure!

Step by step process of root canal process

After a thorough dental examination, when the dentist examines your condition and determines if you need a root canal, this is how the further steps will be:

Prepare the area to be treated.

The dentist will first numb the area to be treated, i.e., the gums and the affected tooth's root. After that, a dental dam is placed in the mouth to separate the affected tooth by covering other teeth.

Clean the roots.

Our dentist will create an access point through a small drill in the tooth to reach the root canals and pulp chamber. We will use special dental tools to clean the decayed tissue in the pulp chamber and root canals and also use an antibacterial or antiseptic solution to disinfect them to keep infection at bay.

Filling the root canals.

The dentist will shape the canals and use gutta-percha to fill them. The canals are sealed further by using adhesive cement to keep the bacteria away.

Filling the access hole

The dentist will also seal the access hole created to reach the root canals. This will help prevent bacteria from entering the treated tooth. If the tooth is weak and cannot support a restoration, then the dentist may place a post to provide it strength.

Finally, the crown

If your tooth requires further strength, then the dentist will take an impression of the tooth to be placed to get a customized crown created. Once ready and placed, this permanent crown adds more strength and stability to the treated tooth. 

What are the common aftercare suggestions by the dentist?

The dentist may prescribe certain antibiotics. These medications help prevent any infection and also give you important post-care instructions like:

• Avoid biting your cheek or tongue while eating
• Reduce chewing or biting on the treated tooth until the restoration is placed
• Do brush and floss your teeth as instructed by the dentist
• Contact your dentist if you see any signs of severe pain, allergic reactions, or persisting swelling.

To learn more about the root canal treatment we offer at Beautiful Dentistry, contact Dr. Sobieraj and his team at (480) 831-1700 or visit our office located at 2125 E Warner Rd #101, Tempe, AZ 85284.