What is root canal treatment?
Tooth has three layers, top layer is enamel, middle is the dentine and the innermost part is called pulp. Pulp is a soft, living tissue which contains blood vessels, and nerves. A root canal treatment is needed when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. Pulp can get infected because of –
- Deep cavity
- Fracture/ crack/ chipping of tooth
- Severe wearing of tooth
How is the RCT done?
Root Canal Treatment is performed by specialists called Endodontists. Endodontist will numb the teeth and make a small hole in the tooth and removes the inflamed or infected pulp and the inside of the tooth is careful- ly cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards the tooth is filled and protected with a crown. Crowns are done by specialist called Prosthodontist. After this the tooth will continue to function like any other tooth.
What is the success rate of the treatment?
Root canals usually have over 90% of success rate and if it can last a lifetime. A tooth that had a root canal treatment still may suffer from a cavity. To avoid this, maintain teeth hygiene, brush and floss your teeth regularly and have regular visits with the dentist.