Root canal (endodontic) therapy treats disorders of the nerve (pulp) of the tooth. In the past, a tooth with a diseased or infected nerve had to be removed. However, in 95 percent of these cases today, this is no longer true. We believe in saving teeth (instead of removing them) and we will make every effort to save yours!
Why Do I Need A Root Canal?
There are several reasons why you may need a root canal. The most common are:
- Trauma- a physical blow to a tooth or a constant striking by a tooth in the opposite jaw that traumatizes the tooth.
- Physical irritation- deep decay or a very large filling.
Regardless of the initial cause, the tooth pulp becomes irritated and an abcess (infection) occurs. Bacteria from your saliva grow within the tooth pulp, causing pressure and pain. In some cases your face may swell. Eventually the pulp dies, causing the bone around the tooth to be destroyed.
Here's How Your Tooth Can Be Saved With Endodontic Treatment
An opening is made through the crown into the pulp. (Your tooth may be numbed prior to this procedure). The diseased pulp is then carefully removed. The root canal area inside your tooth is cleaned, enlarged and shaped. Then, depending on your individual case, the root canal(s) and pulp chamber may be permanently filled and sealed. In some cases, however, a temporary medication is placed in the tooth to control bacterial growth and reduce infection.
Most often, a provisional filling is placed in the opening of the tooth until the next visit. In some cases, however, the tooth may be left open. This allows the infection to drain.
At the next appointment, the inside of the tooth is sterilized to remove any remaining bacteria. Throughout the root canal procedure we take X-rays to ensure that all of the infected pulp is removed and that the walls inside the canal are smooth. Then the root canal and pulp chamber are permanently filled and sealed. Finally, the tooth is fully restored to chewing functions-most often with a full crown.
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