Root Canal Therapy

A root canal is treatment is necessary when the pulp (soft tissue inside your teeth containing blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue) becomes inflamed or diseased. Root canal therapy is removing the diseased pulp. Then the dentist or endodontist(a dentist who specializes in treating the insides of teeth) cleans the pulp chamber and root(s) of the tooth are then cleaned and sealed. If the infected pulp is not removed, pain, swelling and infection can occur and your tooth may have to be removed.

Causes of an infected pulp could include:

A deep cavity
Repeated dental procedures
A cracked or broken tooth
Injury to the tooth(even if there’s not a visible crack or chip)

After root canal therapy the tooth is then considered “dead” but is still functional, it is highly recommended that you have a PFM crown (Porcelain Fused to Metal) placed, having a crown re-enforces the tooth. Due to having blood supply and nerve tissue removed, the tooth becomes brittle and is at risk to break. Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile.