Endodontic Therapy
A root canal is a common dental procedure designed to save your natural tooth and prevent the need for more extensive treatments, like dental implants or bridges.
Why is a Root Canal Needed?
At the center of each tooth lies the dental pulp, also known as the nerve of the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected, it can cause significant pain. Infections are often the result of:
Trauma to the tooth
Deep cavities that reach the nerve
Cracks or fractures in the tooth
Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
By removing the infected pulp, a root canal relieves pain, eliminates infection, and helps preserve the tooth for years to come.
What is The Purpose of a Root Canal?
The nerve inside a tooth primarily provides sensation to hot and cold, but it’s not essential for the tooth’s overall health or function.
When a tooth has a large cavity or crack, bacteria can enter the dental pulp, leading to an infection. If left untreated, this infection can cause:
Pain, swelling, and abscesses
Deterioration of the tooth and surrounding structures
Injury to the jawbone and nearby teeth
Serious risks to your overall health if the infection spreads
A root canal removes the infected tissue, eliminating the pain and stopping the infection, helping to save the tooth and protect your long-term oral and general health.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Not all teeth requiring root canal therapy cause pain, but there are some common signs that indicate an infection of the dental pulp:
Pain when biting or chewing
Swelling around the affected tooth
Visible damage or decay on the tooth
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
Spontaneous or lingering pain without obvious cause
Discoloration of the tooth (it may appear darker than surrounding teeth)
Pain that wakes you up at night
Tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see your dentist promptly. Early treatment can relieve discomfort, save your tooth, and prevent further complications.
What Happens During Endodontic Treatment?
Root canal treatment is performed under local anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. Here’s what you can expect:
Removal of the Infected Tissue
The dentist carefully removes the diseased nerve and infected tissue from the inside of the tooth.Cleaning and Sealing the Tooth
Once the infection is removed, the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and sealed to prevent future infection.Rebuilding the Tooth
The tooth is then reinforced with a white filling material to restore its structure.Placing a Crown
In most cases, a crown is placed over the tooth to provide additional protection and prevent future breakage, especially if the tooth was heavily damaged.
While many teeth can be successfully saved through root canal therapy, some may still require extraction if complications arise or if the prognosis for a successful outcome is poor. If extraction is necessary, we’ll discuss the best options to replace the tooth and restore your smile.
Before
After
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