What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is when the center of the tooth, the root, also known as the pulp is removed. The pulp is tissue with the consistency of fiber that makes up the center of the tooth. The pulp can become damaged or diseased overtime, and when this happens, it is important to remove the pulp. A root canal can save a tooth that otherwise could be lost due to the damage or disease. Below is more detailed information about why root canals may be needed and how the procedure is often done.

There are several possible causes of damage or disease to the tooth’s pulp:

• A fractured or cracked tooth
• A cavity
  An injury to the mouth where the tooth may be damaged and eventually die

If injury or damage causes the pulp to become infected or die, it is important to treat the tooth as soon as possible. If a damaged pulp is left untreated, it can do harm, causing pus to build up in the jawbone, which may lead to the formation of an abscess. An abscess caused by a damaged pulp can do serious damage to the surrounding bone and gums and cause severe pain.

What is the root canal procedure?

Once it is determined that a root canal is needed, there are several steps that occur for the full treatment to take place. For the full root canal treatment an individual may need to visit the dentist office several times.

• Step 1: Your dentist must create a hole in the tooth. If the tooth in need of treatment is a front tooth, the hole is made in the back, if it is a molar, it will be
  made in the crown or top of the tooth.
• Step 2: The diseased or damaged pulp is removed from the inside of the tooth and once it is the inside of the tooth and the canal are cleaned out and prepared for filling.
• Step 3: The inside of the tooth needs to be filled next. If it is not done at the first visit, a temporary filling is inserted to keep the tooth safe until the next visit.
• Step 4: The inside of the tooth and the root canal are permanently filled. The filling is made up a rubber like material called gutta-percha. Sometimes if the
  dentist feels it is necessary, a metal rod is added to the center of the tooth for support.
• Step 5: If necessary, a crown is placed over the tooth to help the tooth match the shape and look of the nearby teeth.

Will the tooth last?

The root canal process may seem like a lot of work, but rest assured, once treated the tooth can last for your entire life and no future work may be necessary. The treated tooth is just like all your other natural teeth, meaning it is still susceptible to natural tooth decay. It is important that good oral hygiene is maintained and regular visits to the dentist occur to prevent any future issues.

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