Root Canal Diagnosis:
Root Canal Diagnosis:
A root canal diagnosis is typically made when the dental pulp, the innermost part of a tooth containing nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or damaged. The need for a root canal is determined through clinical examination, X-rays, and assessment of symptoms. Common signs indicating a potential need for a root canal include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, and tenderness in the surrounding gums. Once diagnosed, a root canal procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the canal, and then filling and sealing it to prevent further infection. This treatment helps save the tooth and alleviate pain associated with the infection.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Common signs include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, and tenderness in the gums. A dentist will conduct an examination and may use X-rays to diagnose the need for a root canal.
The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia, so patients typically feel little to no pain during the root canal. Any discomfort after the procedure is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
The infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the canal is cleaned and disinfected. It is then filled and sealed to prevent further infection.
The duration can vary depending on the tooth’s location and complexity of the case. On average, a root canal procedure takes one to two hours.