A root canal: what is it?
A root canal is a procedure performed to treat the pulp, which is located inside a tooth. The soft tissue that surrounds the tooth's nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue is known as the pulp. If the pulp is damaged or infected, it can produce excruciating pain and, if untreated, can develop into an abscess (a pocket of pus). A root canal is a procedure used to extract the diseased or damaged pulp, clean and sanitize the inside of the tooth, fill the opening, and seal it to stop the spread of infection.

Why may a root canal be necessary?
There are a number of situations where a root canal may be required. The following are some of the most typical causes of pulp infection or damage:
- decay that has progressed to the pulp
- A chipped or broken tooth as a result of trauma
- dental operations that are repeated on the same teeth
- gum illness
- Serious toothaches, sensitivity to heat or cold, and occasionally a small bump or pimple on the gums close to the impacted tooth are signs of pulp injury or infection.
It's crucial to visit a dentist as soon as you can if you are feeling any of these symptoms.

What happens during a root canal?
A dentist or endodontist often performs a root canal (a specialist in treating the inside of the tooth). Depending on the extent of the infection or damage, the surgery is typically completed in one or two sessions. What to anticipate during a root canal is summarized in the following general manner:
- To ensure that you experience the least amount of discomfort possible throughout the treatment, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth.
- To access the pulp inside, the dentist will cut a little incision in the top of the tooth.
- The infected or injured pulp will be removed by the dentist using specialized tools, and the interior of the tooth will be completely cleaned and sterilized.
- The dentist will use a unique substance called gutta-percha to fill the empty space inside the tooth.
- To safeguard the tooth and bring back its function, the dentist will place a filling or crown over it.
- You could feel a little uncomfortable for a few days after the treatment, but this is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. - To achieve the greatest results, it's also crucial to adhere to any post-operative advice given by your dentist.

To summarize, root canals are a common and successful operation to save a tooth that has been chipped or infected. To avoid the need for future, more involved, and costly dental work, it's crucial to consult a dentist as soon as you see any signs of pulp damage or infection. A root canal may usually be completed in one or two visits. You might feel a little uncomfortable afterward, but you can manage it with over-the-counter pain relievers.