Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection.  In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.

Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would die and have to be removed. Root canal treatment is highly successful and usually lasts a lifetime, although on occasion, a tooth will have to be retreated due to new infections.

Reasons for root canal therapy:

• Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
• Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
• Injury or trauma to the tooth.

What does root canal therapy involve?

A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will remove the infected pulp, clean and shape the canal and then fill it with a durable resin material to prevent bacteria from reentering. You should not experience any pain during the procedure and it's typically completed within one or two appointments. While root canals can sound intimidating, they are actually quite common and often necessary to prevent tooth loss or further destruction of surrounding bone due to infection. 

After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed. It is highly recommended after receiving a root canal that you have a crown (cap) placed on your tooth for added protection.

You will be given care instructions after each appointment.  Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.