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What is a Root Canal?
Teeth are made up of three layers:
- Enamel
- Dentin
- Cementum
There is a space inside the hard layer of each tooth. It is called the root canal system and it is filled with soft dental pulp. This pulp is made up of nerves and blood vessels that help the tooth grow and develop. Once a tooth is fully grown, it can survive without a pulp. If the pulp of the tooth becomes infected, then a root canal (or endodontic treatment) is needed. When this is done, the pulp is removed.
When is a Root Canal Needed?
The pulp inside the tooth can be damaged by cracks in the tooth, deep cavities, old fillings that leak and allow bacteria underneath them or trauma due to accidents.
- Changes in the colour of your tooth
- Change in your gums or
- Changes picked up by a dental x-ray
- They last for decades (all about proper maintenance)
Sometimes, if a great deal of dental work is needed, your dentist can tell you from an examination and an x-ray that the pulp of the tooth is most likely not going to survive and a root canal treatment may be necessary.
The Different Types of Dental Veneers
Lumineers
Lumineers are a type of ultra-thin porcelain dental veneer designed to be even thinner than traditional veneers. They’re typically about the same thickness as a contact lens and require minimal tooth preparation. Lumineers can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic dental problems, including stained, chipped, or misaligned teeth.
Zirconia Veneers
Zirconia veneers are made from a type of dental ceramic that is known for its strength and durability. Unlike traditional porcelain veneers, which can chip or crack over time, zirconia veneers are highly resistant to wear and tear. They are also more translucent than traditional porcelain, making them an excellent choice for patients who want a more natural-looking smile.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers can correct various dental and cosmetic imperfections, such as chips, cracks, stains, and minor misalignments, providing a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing smile. The composite resin veneer procedure typically involves minimal tooth preparation, preserving the natural tooth structure.
How is a Root Canal Procedure Done?
Root canal treatment in some instances can be done in one appointment, some times it may take more. It depends on how complex the root canal system is and on the degree of pulp damage and infection.
- A member of the dental team will place a rubber dam around the tooth. This protects the tooth from germs in your saliva while the work is being done.
- Dr. Inigo may give you “freezing” (anesthetic). In some cases, anesthetic is not needed.
- Dr. Inigo will make a small opening in the tooth to reach the root canal system and the damaged pulp.
- He will take out the pulp by cleaning and enlarging the root canal system with very fine dental tools.
- Then he will fill and seal the root canal with a rubber-like material (gutta-percha) after it has been cleaned.
- The tooth will then be sealed with either a temporary or permanent filling.
