An incisor root canal is a dental procedure performed to treat infection or damage in the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) of an incisor, which is one of the front teeth. This procedure becomes necessary when the nerve or pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or trauma to the tooth.
Steps Involved in an Incisor Root Canal:
- Diagnosis and Imaging: The dentist will take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage to the pulp and the surrounding bone.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area around the tooth to ensure the patient is comfortable during the procedure.
- Access Opening: The dentist drills a small opening in the surface of the incisor to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The infected or dead pulp tissue is removed from the inside of the tooth. Special instruments are used to clean and shape the inside of the root canals.
- Disinfection: The root canals are disinfected to remove bacteria and prevent further infection.
- Filling: Once cleaned and shaped, the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal them and prevent future infection.
- Temporary or Permanent Filling: A temporary filling is placed over the access opening, which will later be replaced with a permanent filling or crown to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.