A root canal treatment is a dental procedure aimed at removing inflamed or infected pulp from within a tooth. This process involves thorough cleaning and disinfection of the affected area, followed by filling and sealing to restore the tooth's integrity. The primary goal of root canal treatment is to eradicate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent future reinfection, and preserve the natural tooth.
Beneath the tooth's white enamel and the hard dentin layer lies the pulp, a soft tissue that houses blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue essential for root development. Once a tooth is fully developed, it can function without the pulp, as it receives nourishment from surrounding tissues.
Contemporary root canal treatments differ significantly from outdated perceptions, resembling a routine filling procedure. Typically, the treatment can be completed in one or two visits, depending on the tooth's condition and individual circumstances. The procedure is generally painless and highly effective, allowing patients to return to normal activities, including smiling and eating, shortly thereafter.