A root canal is a procedure done to save a badly decayed or damaged tooth. In severe and untreated cases of tooth decay, the cavity eventually penetrates the enamel and dentin to reach the pulp inside the tooth. The pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, then gets infected by bacteria, and that infection causes excruciating pain.
What Does a Root Canal Involve?
Root canals can be performed by a dentist or an endodontist; the latter is a dental specialist who specializes in treating the interior of the tooth. “Root canal,” by the way, refers to the canals inside a tooth’s roots that connect to the chamber containing the pulp. During a root canal in Chicago, the dentist will remove the diseased pulp and strengthen the remaining tooth.
The dentist will administer a local anesthetic to keep the patient comfortable. They will place a sheet of rubber called a dam around the tooth to keep it clean and dry. The dentist will drill a hole in the tooth to reach the pulp. They will use special tools to remove the pulp and thoroughly clean the insides of the tooth. They will use fluids to flush debris out of the tooth. The dentist will fill the tooth with a material called gutta-percha to strengthen the tooth. They will either fill the hole with filling material or cap the tooth with a crown.
What Is a Crown?
A crown is a dental restoration that covers the top of the tooth. It can be made of ceramic, metal or a combination.
After taking an impression of the patient’s tooth, the dentist will send it to the dental lab which will fabricate the crown. The patient will wear a temporary crown while they wait. When the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and fit the patient with the permanent crown. When they are satisfied that the permanent crown fits perfectly, they will cement it to the patient’s tooth.
Contact Chicago Dental Arts to schedule a root canal in Chicago or visit the website.
