Root Canal Therapy
Each of our teeth contains a thin strand of material called dental pulp. It is a conglomeration of soft tissue containing blood vessels and nerves which provide teeth with nutrients. If the pulp becomes injured or infected, the internal nerves die. Often without root canal or endodontic treatment, the tooth dies as well.
People with pulpal damage often show symptoms such as pain when closing and chewing food, or have extreme sensitivity to hot and cold foods. Facial swelling is often present as well. The damage is sometimes attributed to aggressive dental caries resulting in infection or trauma. If this is left untreated, it can spread to the tissues surrounding the tooth.
Root canal treatment involves removing affected pulpal tissue and then fabricating a crown. These procedures are spread over many visits. During the procedure (with anesthetic), an opening is made into the tooth’s crown and pulp chamber. Diseased tissue is removed and the canals are shaped using hand as well as rotary (electric handpiece) instruments. The tooth is then sealed with a bio-compatible material. Then a filling and/or crown is placed.