Root Canal

A root canal is a necessary procedure when decay has reached the pulp of the tooth. The procedure involves the removal of the nerves and tissue of the tooth root in order to remove all of the infected material in order to save the tooth. If left untreated, serious problems can occur such as abscesses that can lead to bone loss in the jaw.

The procedure begins with the area around the tooth being numbed with a local anesthetic, ensuring your comfort and pain-free experience. Then, your dentist will create a small opening to access the canal. He will then enter the canal and remove all tissue, and then thoroughly clean the cavity. Once all the infected tissue has been removed and the area cleaned, a sealing material will fill the cavity to prevent further damage to the tooth. Most often, a crown is recommended to finish the procedure on the affected tooth to ensure its strength and durability and to prevent further decay on the tooth.

Root canals are a very common and easy procedure that are no longer the scary procedure that most people think they are. Advances in technology have transformed the procedure into a comfortable, quick and easy practice. There may be some soreness after the procedure, which is normal of most treatments, but most over-the-counter painkillers should be able to take care of any discomfort. It is more uncomfortable to leave the problem untreated, as it will become increasingly more painful and difficult to treat if ignored for a long period of time.