What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental treatment to fix an infection in the center of a tooth. The dentist removes the infected or damaged tissue inside the tooth, cleans it out, and then fills and seals it to stop the infection from coming back. This helps save your natural tooth, makes it work again, and prevents the oral infection from spreading.
When is a Root Canal Needed?

A root canal is necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen for several reasons. One common cause is deep decay, which allows bacteria to reach the pulp.
Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth or a crack or chip in the tooth can also lead to infection.
Additionally, trauma to the tooth can cause the pulp to become inflamed and infected. If left untreated, the infection can spread and form an abscess at the root tip, causing severe pain and swelling.
A root canal is essential in such cases to remove the infection, alleviate pain, and save the tooth.
What To Expect – The Root Canal Procedure:
A root canal procedure is a multi-step process designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. Understanding each step can help alleviate any anxiety and ensure you know what to expect. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from the initial diagnosis to the final restoration, highlighting the importance of each phase in ensuring the long-term health and functionality of your tooth.
Let’s Dive into the Detailed Steps Involved in this Critical Dental Treatment:
1. Diagnosis and X-Ray:

The dentist begins by examining the tooth to understand the problem. They will take an X-ray of the tooth to determine how far the infection has spread and to see the shape of the root canals. This step is crucial for planning the procedure.
2. Anesthesia:
To ensure the procedure is painless, the dentist administers local anesthesia. This numbs the tooth and the surrounding area so that you won’t feel any pain during the treatment.
3. Access Opening:
The dentist then makes a small opening in the top of the tooth. This opening allows the dentist to reach the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth.
4. Pulp Removal:
Using specialized instruments, the dentist carefully removes the infected or dead pulp from the inside of the tooth. Once the pulp is removed, the dentist thoroughly cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, including the root canals, to eliminate any remaining bacteria and infection.
5. Shaping and Filling:
After cleaning, the dentist shapes the inside of the root canals to prepare them for filling. The cleaned canals are then filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha. This material seals the canals, preventing any future infections.
6. Restoration:
The tooth needs to be restored to its full function and appearance. The dentist may place a temporary filling. Later, a permanent filling or a crown is placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its shape and function. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the tooth completely, providing extra strength and protection.
Benefits Of Having A Root Canal:
- Pain Relief: The root canal procedure removes the source of infection and pain, providing relief from the discomfort caused by the infected pulp.
- Tooth Preservation: By cleaning and sealing the inside of the tooth, the root canal procedure saves the tooth from being extracted. This allows you to keep your natural tooth.
- Preventing Spread: Treating the infection with a root canal prevents it from spreading to surrounding tissues, which can lead to more serious health issues.

Post-Treatment Care:
After a root canal, it is common for the treated tooth to be sensitive for a few days. This sensitivity is usually temporary and should gradually subside. To ensure the long-term health of the treated tooth, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. This includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental check-ups. Proper care helps prevent any future issues and keeps the treated tooth in good condition. If any unusual pain or symptoms persist, it is important to contact your dentist promptly for further evaluation and care.
If you need a root canal or have questions about your dental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to Miami Valley Smiles. Our experienced team is here to provide you with exceptional care and ensure your smile stays healthy and bright.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment!