A Step-by-Step Look at Root Canal Treatment

MANY COMMON DENTAL procedures are a mystery to the average person, but knowing a little more about them might help patients who have dental anxiety because they don’t know what to expect. Here’s the step-by-step process of root canal treatment.

A Guided Tour Through Root Canal Treatment

• Step 1: Reviewing previous X-rays and performing a visual inspection of the tooth.
• Step 2: Numbing the area with a local anesthetic so the procedure will be pain-free.
• Step 3: Placing a dental dam to protect and isolate the tooth.
• Step 4: Using a special drill to create an opening in the top of the tooth to expose the pulp.
• Step 5: Removing the diseased pulp from the pulp chamber and root canal.
• Step 6: Cleaning the inside of the tooth and preparing it to accommodate a filling.
• Step 7: Applying antimicrobial medication to the inside of the tooth to prevent infection.
• Step 8: Filling the tooth with a rubber-like material.
• Step 9: Placing a temporary filling to protect the tooth from food and debris.

What Comes Next?

In many cases, there will be a gap between the treatment and when the permanent filling or crown can be placed. The tooth may be sensitive for a few days, so avoid chewing on that side and use over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any discomfort.

And keep brushing and flossing!

Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.