How a Root Canal Works in 3 Steps

Root canal therapy is one of the most common dental procedures performed each year, and yet many people have no idea how a root canal works. This can be intimidating, especially if you need the procedure yourself! Here are the 3 stages of root canal therapy and what you can expect from each.

1. The Root Canal

First, your dentist will provide the actual root canal procedure. This involves drilling into your tooth to clear away the infected tissue inside. You’ll be given an anesthetic so you won’t feel a thing while this is going on. Once your dentist is finished, the newly-formed hole is filled with a putty-like substance to keep bacteria out and restore some of the integrity of the tooth.

2. Rebuilding Your Tooth

The newly-cured tooth is not strong enough to function on its own. After your root canal procedure, you will be fitted with a crown that will cover the injured tooth and protect it from further damage. You might be fitted with a temporary crown while your permanent crown is made, and your dentist will then seal the permanent crown over your tooth to restore its appearance and function.

3. Restoring Your Oral Health

The last step in the process is evaluating your oral health routine so you won’t need another root canal in the future. Your dentist will let you know any areas for improvement that he or she notices, and you’re free to ask any questions you might have. Going forward, it’s important that you keep your crown clean and thoroughly brush and floss the area so that you can avoid serious oral health problems down the line.

Root canals have a bad reputation, but they’re an extremely common procedure that can completely restore an injured tooth. If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment for a root canal, give one of Harmony Dental’s local offices a call today!