Root Canal Therapy

Root Canal Therapy

If endodontic therapy or root canal treatment has been recommended to you in order to save your tooth from extraction, you may appreciate some information about this procedure. The pulp, commonly called "the nerve", is a specialized tissue within the tooth. Deep decay, large restoration, gum recession and trauma to a tooth can result in damage to the pulp tissue. Often this damage is only slight and the pulp can recover. If the damage is too severe or if there is an accumulation of irritations to the pulp over time, the pulp may become diseased and begin to deteriorate.

The breakdown products from the diseased pulp can extend beyond the tooth root and result in bone destruction forming an abscess. To alleviate symptoms and to create a favorable environment for healing, the pulp tissue must be removed.

After the administration of an effective local anesthetic, an opening is made through the top of the tooth to gain access to the root canals. The diseased pulp tissue is removed with very fine instruments all the way to the root tips. After the root canals have been disinfected they are sealed to prevent further irritation to the surrounding bone. This procedure is often accomplished in one visit, but two or more appointments may be required to allow complete disinfection of the root canals.

The tooth is then restored with a filling, but may require a crown (cap) to be placed over the tooth to protect it and prevent it from breaking. If severe decay has occurred and little tooth structure remains above the gum line, a post may be required in the root canal to ensure ample support for the restoration.

Tenderness after endodontic therapy is common, and will usually last 2-3 days. Your dentist will prescribe medications to help make you more comfortable.

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