The Root Canal Therapy Process: Step-by-Step
Initial Consultation
Goehring Dental will start by examining your tooth and taking X-rays to assess the extent of damage or infection. Your initial consultation is a great time to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have.
Preparation
Once the diagnosis is confirmed and we’ve determined that a root canal is necessary, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding area. This ensures that you’re entirely comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Tooth Isolation
To maintain a sterile environment and keep the tooth dry during the procedure, a rubber dam or dental dam is placed around the tooth. This prevents saliva and bacteria from entering the tooth and helps ensure the success of the root canal.
Access Opening
After the tooth is isolated, your dentist will create a small access opening in the crown of the tooth. This opening provides access to the pulp chamber and root canals.
Pulp Removal
Using specialized instruments, the infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed from the pulp chamber and the root canals. The dentist ensures that all infected tissue is thoroughly cleaned out.
Cleaning and Shaping
The next step involves cleaning and shaping the interior of the root canals. This process removes any remaining debris and disinfects the canals to eliminate bacteria. The canals are shaped to accommodate the filling material.
Filling and Sealing
Once the canals are clean and shaped, they’re filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material seals the canals to prevent any future infection. The access opening is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.
Tooth Restoration
After the root canal is completed, the tooth may be weak and susceptible to fracture. In most cases, a dental crown or tooth-colored filling is placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength and function. The crown is custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless appearance.
Trust Your Smile to Goehring Dental
At Goehring Dental, we recognize the concerns and questions you may have regarding root canal therapy. With our skilled team, led by Dr. Goehring, you’re in the hands of professionals who prioritize your well-being and comfort.
Don’t let tooth pain hinder your life — contact us today at (512) 892-8822 to schedule an appointment and one of our friendly team members will get back to you shortly. Goehring Dental serves new and returning patients patients in Austin and surrounding cities such as Buda, Cedar Park, Dripping Springs, Kyle, Lockhart, Lakeway, San Marcos, and Round Rock.
Let’s work together to restore your smile’s health and radiance!
