Root Canal Therapy

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 abscess (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.

What’s Going to Happen?

Once it has been determined (with radiographs and clinical examination) that root canal therapy is necessary, you will be scheduled for one or more appointments. It is essential that you take all antibiotics and medications prescribed in order to hasten healing and reduce swelling. Should you experience pain that cannot be controlled with the prescribed medication call our office immediately. This is unusual, but a precaution.

Here’s How Your Tooth Can Be Saved With Endodontic Treatment

An opening is made through the crown into the pulp. 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 temporary filling is placed in the opening of the tooth until the next visit.

At the next appointment the inside of the tooth is sterilized, to remove any remaining bacteria. Throughout the root canal procedure we take radiographs 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 function with a full crown.

Care Following Treatment

Once the root canal treatment has been completed, you should be aware of the following considerations:

• Discoloration – Occasionally an endodontically treated tooth may undergo a change in color. While this is of no great medical concern, you may be interested in having the tooth whitened.
• Brittleness – A non-vital (endodontically treated) tooth is more brittle than a vital one, and is more susceptible to fracture. Therefore, we recommend that your root canal teeth be crowned (capped) following treatment.

 

If You Have Further Questions

Throughout your root canal treatment you may have questions or concerns not covered on this page. We will make every effort to ensure you comfort during root canal treatment. And we are happy to answer any questions you may have. Our concern is you comfort and confidence. Our goal is to help preserve your natural teeth for a lifetime.