A root canal is a common procedure done to try to save a badly decayed or damaged tooth. It is most often recommended when the pulp within the tooth has become infected. Here’s what you need to know about this procedure.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
A root canal in Chicago first involves removing the infected pulp and cleaning and disinfecting the rest of the tooth. The dentist or endodontist will numb the tooth to keep the patient comfortable. They will use a rubber shield to keep the tooth isolated from the rest of the patient’s mouth. The tooth will thus remain dry and clean during the procedure.
Next, the dentist will make an opening through the crown of the tooth to reach the pulp. They will then use a fluid to kill any bacteria and disinfect the canals in the roots. The dentist will then remove the pulp and use special instruments to clean the interior of the tooth carefully. They will fill the root canals with a special material called gutta-percha to strengthen the tooth roots. Finally, the patient will usually need a crown to cap the tooth and fortify it. The dentist will thus give them a temporary crown while the dental lab fabricates a permanent crown.
What is Gentle Wave?
Gentle Wave is an alternative treatment to a standard root canal which can also be used to save a tooth after a failed root canal. Gentle Wave technology is minimally invasive and uses special fluids to flush out the bacteria, debris, and infected pulp. Its uses a degassing process to keep air bubbles from forming and blocking the fluids in the root canals, and it also uses acoustic energy to propel the fluid throughout the whole tooth, so it can reach places conventional root canals often miss.
For more information about a root canal in Chicago, IL, contact South Loop Dental Specialists today.
