Root Canal Treatment

 

 

Dr. Glenn examines and x-rays the tooth, then administers local anesthetic. After the tooth is numb, he places a small protective sheet called a “dental dam” over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure.

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Dr. Glenn makes an opening in the crown of the tooth. Very small instruments are used to clean the pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals and to shape the space for filling.

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After the space is cleaned and shaped, Dr. Glenn fills the root canals with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the root canals. At this point, either a temporary filling or permanent core build-up is placed to close the opening. If a temporary filling is placed, it will be removed by your dentist before the tooth is restored.

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After your visit with Dr. Glenn, you must return to your dentist to have a crown or other restoration placed on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function.

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Images reproduced with permission from the American Association of Endodontists.