The Seal

Once the specified amount of time has elasped (your dentist will advise you of this), you will have to return to the surgery for the seal appointment. At this appointment the tooth is opened up again and the root canals cleaned and widened. X-rays may be taken frequently at this stage, to ensure that the canals are being thoroughly prepared. Sometimes, in order to reduce radiation, your dentist may use something called an apex locator - which is a small device that discerns the lenght of the root by using a electric probe.

Then, a special filling material called, gutta percha, is placed into the canals. Pressure is used to attain a good seal and to reduce the possibility of a leak. This appointment takes approximately between 45 minutes to 1 1/2 hours depending on the tooth and the number of canals. After this step, another temporary filling is placed, and you are allowed to go home.