On my eighth day, the first patient I observed had a root canal treatment. Dr. Siegel explained to me that it’s the removal of the center of the tooth, which is known as the pulp. A root canal treatment is used to save a tooth that is decayed or infected.
Another procedure that I observed was a patient getting her teeth filled in. Dr. Siegel and the dental hygienist or assistant used a needle with an injection to numb the top and bottom corners of the gums and mouth. Then, they used a filling that they put into the gaps of the patient’s mouth. Dr. Siegel used a small drill to shave off the excess filling and make sure the patient’s jaw aligned properly.
This experience has been enlightening and I’m so grateful to have shadowed Dr. Siegel in these past two weeks!!