Dental Procedure
Endodontics
Endodontics
Teeth have a soft core, referred to as pulp, that extends from the crown of the tooth all the way to the tip of the root located deep in the jawbone. Within this pulp, there are blood vessels, connective tissue and nerves. Cracked or broken teeth, decay, fillings and various types of trauma can damage those nerves. There are times the nerve damage is beyond repair and a root canal is necessary to save the tooth.
This endodontic treatment, a root canal, is performed to remove the diseased pulp, clean and shape the root canal system, disinfect contaminated root canals, and then fill the root canal system to prevent re-infection and promote healing.
Root Canal Procedure
The root canal typically requires one or two visits to Dr. Francisco’s office, but occasionally additional visits are required due to the complexity of the case. First, dental X-rays will be used to check the extent of damage. Then you will receive a local anesthetic to control discomfort and pain during the procedure. Dr. Francisco will remove any and all decay and he will make an opening through the crown of the tooth to gain access to the pulp chamber. The infected or diseased pulp is then removed from the pulp chamber and root canals through the use of various dental tools.
After removal of the diseased pulp, the root canals and pulp chamber are flushed and cleaned. The root canals may be enlarged to allow easier access for filling later. Before the root canals are permanently filled, they should be cleaned of all infection and dried. If necessary, medication might be placed in the pulp chamber and root canals in order to fully clear any infection. It is possible the tooth might be left open to drain for a number of days. And, if infection has spread beyond the specific tooth, you might be prescribed antibiotics. A temporary filling will be placed in the crown to protect the tooth and keep out saliva and debris if the root canal requires several visits. Avoid chewing or biting on the tooth until the entire root canal procedure has been completed.
After complete cleaning and drying, the pulp chamber and root canals are filled. Any temporary filling will be removed to allow access inside of the tooth. The tooth is then closed and sealed using a sealer paste / rubber compound.
Because the tooth will usually have a large filling and / or is weakened from decay, it will need to be returned to normal function and protected from future damage. This is typically done by placing a crown — a natural-looking artificial tooth. A crown is made of porcelain, zirconia, gold or porcelain fused to metal. Crowns made of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal can be color matched to your other teeth through tinting. At times, a metal post inserted into the tooth is required for structural support and to keep the crown in place.