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Root Canal Therapy Years ago, teeth with diseased or injured pulps were removed. Today, root canal treatment has given dentists a safe way of saving teeth. Root canal treatment is the removal of nerve tissue inside the canal(s) of a tooth. Usually the procedure can be started and finished in two or three visits. With today's modern dental equipment and techniques root canal therapy can be very comfortable. |
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What happens if the pulp gets injured?
When the pulp is diseased or injured and can't repair itself, it dies. The most common cause of pulp death is a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. Both of these problems can let germs (bacteria) enter the pulp. Germs can cause an infection inside the tooth. Left without treatment, pus builds up and the root tip, in the jawbone, forming a "pus-pocket" called an abscess. An abscess can cause damage to the bone around the teeth. When the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result. Certain byproducts of the infection can injure your jawbones. Without treatment, your tooth may have to be removed.
Treatment Information
First, an opening is made through the crown of the tooth. The infected pulp is then removed. X-rays may be taken to make sure that all of the infected pulp is removed. The root canal(s) is cleaned and shaped to a form that can be sealed. Medications may be put in the tooth opening and root canal(s) to help get rid of germs and prevent infection. The canals are subsequently sealed so that this space will not get re-infected. A temporary filling may be placed over the opening between visits to keep saliva and food debris out.
We want the entire procedure to be comfortable for you, so the first thing we will do is make sure you're thoroughly numb. Then, we may place a rubber dam around your tooth to isolate it from the rest of your mouth. It protects you by keeping debris from falling to the back of your throat. It also keeps the tooth dry and accessible for better visibility. To get at the infection, we make an opening through the top of the tooth down into the pulp chamber. We will clean out the infected tissue within the canals and finally seal the canals so they don't get re-infected. X-rays will be taken to insure proper seal.
Sometimes it's necessary to strengthen a tooth with a post. The post is cemented down inside one of the root canals. Finally, a crown is usually recommended to restore the tooth. It protects your tooth and gives you back your smile.
