Nobody enjoys hearing they need dental work, but sometimes a procedure like a root canal is necessary to save a tooth and prevent more serious problems. This post explains what a root canal is, why it’s needed, and how to recognize the signs that you might need one.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure to treat infection within the tooth’s pulp. The pulp is the soft, inner part of the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.

Why is a Root Canal Necessary?

A root canal becomes necessary when the pulp becomes infected or inflamed. This usually happens when a cavity (tooth decay) is left untreated:

Cavity Progression: Bacteria in plaque produce acids that erode the tooth enamel (the hard, outer layer) and then the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel).
Pulp Infection: If the decay reaches the pulp, the bacteria can infect the pulp tissue, causing inflammation and pain.

Saving the Tooth:

The goal of a root canal is to remove the infected or inflamed pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, and then fill and seal it to prevent further infection. This allows you to keep your natural tooth, which is generally preferable to extraction. The procedure involves:

Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed with a local anesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure.
Access Opening: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
Pulp Removal: The infected or inflamed pulp is carefully removed.
Cleaning and Shaping: The root canals (the narrow channels within the tooth roots) are cleaned and shaped.
Filling: The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha.
Sealing: The access opening is sealed with a filling or crown to protect the tooth.

Recognizing the Signs of a Root Canal:

Symptoms that might indicate you need a root canal include:

Severe Toothache: Persistent, throbbing pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure.
Sensitivity: Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the stimulus is removed.
Gum Swelling: Swelling and tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth.
Gum Pimple (Fistula): A small, pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth, which may drain pus.
Tooth Discoloration: The affected tooth may darken.
Pain that Radiates: Pain that spreads to the jaw, ear, or head.

Diagnosis:

To confirm if a root canal is needed, a dentist will examine your tooth, take X-rays, and may perform other tests. X-rays can reveal signs of infection within the tooth’s root canals, which appear as dark spots extending beyond the enamel and dentin layers.

The Importance of Oral Health:

The mouth serves as a protective barrier for the rest of the body. When oral health is compromised (e.g., by infection), it can potentially increase the risk of other health problems.

Prevention:

The best way to avoid needing a root canal is to prevent tooth decay through:

Brushing: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
Mouthrinse: Use an antimicrobial mouthrinse to help reduce bacteria.
Regular Dental Visits: See your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, schedule a dental appointment promptly. Early treatment can often save your tooth and prevent more extensive and costly procedures.

By Alexander Ash, DDS

Dr. Ash is the founder of Studio Dental Care. He earned his Doctorate at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, followed by two General Residencies at New York-Presbyterian / Weill-Cornell Hospital and the UCLA Sepulveda VA Hospital.