Most have heard of a root canal, but are there different types of root canals? Root canal therapy is a popular procedure in dentistry. In this procedure, an endodontist will clear the inner tooth chamber, removing the nerve roots and tooth pulp. Subsequently, they cover the cavity with a crown to prevent the infection from redeveloping. The purpose of a root canal is to save your tooth. However, if the root canal is no longer effective for removing bacterial infections, the other option is tooth extraction. If you want better advice about your dental problems in NYC, contact us at Byrant Park Endodontics.
You need to visit an endodontist as soon as you identify signs of infection. The doctor will examine the condition of your tooth and decide the best root canal treatment. Yes, endodontists practice different root canal procedures depending on your condition. The goal of all root canal types is to remove bacteria and decay and prevent spread. In this article, you will learn the different types of root canal procedures:
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that endodontists specialize in. When your tooth pulp and nerves suffer from inflammation and irritation, it indicates that the tooth is suffering from bacterial infection. You may develop an infection because of chipping, cracking, or large filling on the tooth.
When performing the procedure, an endodontist will remove infected tooth pulp, fill in the tooth hole, and cover the opening. When you fail to treat a bacterial infection, it can result in a dental abscess. The nerves inside your tooth are what cause sensations as well as maintain the tooth’s health. Without nerves, your tooth could die.
Why You Should Get the Pulp Removed
Bacteria damages the pulp and nerve tissue, effectively causing an infection. When it reaches the pulp after penetrating the dentin, the bacteria start multiplying. This collects decayed debris inside the pulp, causing an infection or abscessed teeth. An abscess is a pocket filled with pus. This develops near the tooth’s root. Bacterial infection in the root canal can cause:
- Gum swelling. The infection also causes swelling on the other part of the head, neck, or face.
- Bone loss around the root.
- Drainage problem
Signs of Root Canal
Look for these signs if you think you need a root canal:
- Sharp pain while biting or chewing
- Tooth sensitivity, especially due to cold and heat food items.
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Swollen gum
- Pimples on the gums
- Darkened gums or deep decay
Different Types of Root Canals
Here are three different types of root canals:
1. Nonsurgical Root Canal Treatment
This is a standard type of root canal treatment for nerve tissue removal. If your tooth develops critical tooth decay that a filling can’t treat, you need a nonsurgical root canal. Also, when the infection reaches your nerves, removing it with other methods is difficult. Therefore, an endodontist will recommend a nonsurgical root canal as a treatment option.
When the primary or nonsurgical root canal is unsuccessful, the endodontist will recommend apicoectomy. This treatment is suitable when the infection and inflammation reach the alveolar bone. This bone is the part of your jaw. This procedure becomes necessary because of a sharp pain throughout your face. The endodontist will inject local anesthesia on the infected region. They will remove the tip of your tooth’s root and fill material to protect the canal. After a few months of surgery, your tooth’s root will automatically heal. However, you do not have to wait that long. Apicoectomy is a surgical procedure wherein you can leave for home soon after the surgery. You can also perform daily activities after the procedure.
3. Pulpotomy and Pulpectomy
Pulpotomies and pulpectomies are suitable for children with baby teeth. An endodontist will use these techniques as root canals. These procedures will save your child’s natural teeth and support healthy growth. Below, we will discuss both the techniques in detail:
- In a pulpotomy, an endodontist will remove the tooth pulp from the chamber. Furthermore, they will leave the healthy pulp for the natural growth of the tooth’s root. This procedure is suitable for damaged or infected inner nerve tissues of your child’s tooth.
- In a pulpectomy, an endodontist will move all the pulp and include filler material in the canal. The doctor will perform this treatment when they think that the pulpotomy procedure won’t work. This dental treatment treats extensive decay or infection for your child.
Different Types of Root Canals: Conclusion
Infection in the tooth pulp can cause various problems, such as pain, pressure, and swelling. In extreme conditions, the swelling will spread to your jaw, face, and neck. You will experience severe pain because your tooth nerves are under pressure. If you do not get proper treatment in time, the infection can lead to tooth loss. Therefore, you need to visit a professional endodontist for the treatment.
At Bryant Park Endodontics, we have highly qualified and experienced root canal specialists. Our endodontists can protect your tooth from tooth decay and lower the risk of tooth loss. To speak with our experts, contact us today.