It’s necessary to have endodontic or root canal treatment when the inside of your tooth [the pulp] becomes inflammed or infected as a result of deep decay, repeated dental procedures, faulty crowns or a crack or chip in the tooth. When you undergo a root canal treatment the inflammed pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection and will continue to function like any other tooth.
Dental dam-rubber dam
is a thin, 6-inch square sheet, latex or nitrile, used in dentistry to isolate the operative site from the rest of the mouth. It is used mainly in endodontics. It’s purpose is to:
-prevent saliva interfering with dental work
-prevent instruments and materials from damaging the mouth, being inhaled or swallowed
-protecting soft tissues of oral mucosa from sharp instruments
The patient is able to comfortably breathe through their nose. Latex allergy may cause allergic contact dermatitis or stomatitis. Nitrile versions are available for those with latex allergy.