Root canal treatment and what you need to know

1. What is dental pulp?

Pulp The dental pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. It plays an important role in providing nutrients and sensation to the tooth. It extends from the pulp chamber in the crown of the tooth to the root canals in the root. The pulp also has a protective and regenerative function, helping the tooth respond to external stimuli and creating new dentin when necessary.

2. What is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as root canal or endodontic treatment, is the process of removing pulpitis or infection. The procedure involves opening the pulp chamber, removing the damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the canals, and then filling them with a special material to prevent re-infection. The goal of root canal treatment is to save the tooth and stop the infection from spreading.

3. Why is root canal treatment necessary?

Root canal treatment is necessary when the dental pulp is inflamed or infected due to many causes such as:

• Tooth decay
• Dental trauma
• Cracked or broken tooth

If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing pain, tooth abscesses, and even tooth loss. Root canal treatment helps preserve natural teeth, prevent serious complications, and maintain chewing function and aesthetics of the teeth.

4. What signs and symptoms indicate the need for root canal treatment?

Signs and symptoms that indicate the need for root canal treatment include:

• Severe toothache: Especially when chewing or biting. Pain may be constant or intermittent.
• Temperature sensitivity: Persistent pain or discomfort when eating or drinking hot or cold foods.
• Swollen gums: The area around the infected tooth may become swollen and red.
• Tooth abscess: Pus or swelling around the tooth, possibly accompanied by a foul odor.
• Discolored teeth: Infected teeth may become darker in color than other teeth.
• Tooth pain: A painful feeling when lightly touching the tooth or surrounding area.
• Pain radiating to the jaw and face: Pain may radiate to nearby areas such as the cheeks, jaw, or ears.

5. How to perform root canal treatment

Root canal treatment usually takes place through the following steps:

5.1. Diagnosis and preparation: 

• The doctor will perform a clinical examination and take X-rays to determine the condition of the dental pulp.
• Assess the extent of damage and plan detailed treatment.

5.2. Anesthesia: 

• The tooth and surrounding area will be numbed to reduce pain during treatment.
• The doctor will use a local anesthetic to ensure the patient does not feel any pain.

5.3. Opening the pulp chamber: 

• The dentist will make a small hole in the tooth surface to access the pulp chamber.
• For incisors, the opening is usually made on the back of the tooth; for molars, the opening is usually on the chewing surface.

5.4. Removal of pulp: 

• Inflamed or infected pulp will be completely removed with specialized instruments.
• The dentist will use endodontic files to clean the root canals. Endodontic files, usually made from Nickel-Titanium alloy (NiTi), are durable and flexible, helping to clean the root canals effectively and safely.
  

5.5. Cleaning and disinfection: 

• The root canals will be cleaned and disinfected with a specialized disinfectant solution.
• This process helps remove bacteria and debris remaining in the root canal.

5.6. Root canal filling: 

• The root canals are filled with a specialized material, usually gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is a flexible, elastic natural resin that is widely used in root canal treatment to seal the root canals after cleaning and disinfection.
• This material helps seal the root canal, preventing re-infection.

5.7. Dental restoration: 

• The tooth will be restored by placing a crown or filling material to restore function and aesthetics.
• In some cases, a post may be needed to strengthen the tooth.

5.8. Final check: 

Your dentist will take X-rays to make sure the root canal is completely filled and there are no signs of infection.

6. How much does root canal treatment cost?

The cost of root canal treatment can range from 1 million to 5 million VND, depending on many factors:

Tooth Type: Incisors are generally less expensive than molars, due to the fewer and more accessible root canals.

• Complexity: Complex cases such as curved or calcified root canals will cost more.
• Treatment Location: Costs may vary between clinics and geographic areas.
• Doctor's experience: Doctors with more experience and expertise may charge higher fees.
• Treatment: Using modern technology such as dental microscopes can increase costs.

7. Things to note after root canal treatment

After root canal treatment, patients need to note the following points to ensure the best recovery process:

Avoid chewing with the treated tooth: For the first few days after treatment, avoid chewing with the treated tooth to reduce pressure and avoid pain.

Maintain oral hygiene: 

• Brush and floss regularly to keep your mouth clean and prevent infection.
• Use a soft toothbrush and brush gently to avoid irritating the treatment area.

Track symptoms: 

• If you experience any unusual symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling, or fever, contact your doctor immediately.
• Some mild discomfort for the first few days is normal, but if it persists or becomes severe, it should be checked out.

Periodic check-up: 

• Come back for a follow-up appointment so your doctor can check and make sure your treatment is going well.
• There will usually be a follow-up appointment in 1-2 weeks to check on recovery.

Limit solid foods: 

• Avoid eating foods that are too hard or sticky for the first few days after treatment.
• Eat soft, cool foods to avoid irritating the treated tooth area.

Take medication as directed: If prescribed, take pain medication or antibiotics at the correct dose and length of time.

Complete dental restoration: 

• If you have not completed a dental restoration (such as a crown), see your dentist to complete the treatment.
• Teeth after root canal treatment are often weaker and need to be protected with a crown or filling to prevent cracking or breaking.

Maintain good oral care habits: 

• Continue to maintain good oral hygiene habits to protect the treated tooth and other teeth.
• You should have a dental check-up every 6 months to detect dental problems early.

By following the simple tips above, you can maintain good oral health and prevent the need for more invasive dental procedures.

We all know that prevention is always better than cure!