Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is a crucial treatment designed to save a tooth that has become infected due to a deep cavity or a cracked tooth. During this procedure, the dentist removes the infected pulp and nerves from inside the tooth, thoroughly cleans the area, and seals it to prevent further infection. Although the pulp and nerve play a role in a tooth’s initial development, they are not necessary for the tooth’s long-term health and function after it has fully emerged from the gums. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone, leading to severe pain, swelling, and ultimately the need for tooth extraction.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing
Persistent tooth pain that disrupts your sleep
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers long after the temperature is removed
Discoloration or darkening of the affected tooth
Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the infected tooth

What the Treatment Involves

The procedure begins by creating an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Once the infected pulp is removed, the dentist will clean the root canal thoroughly. If the treatment is done over multiple visits, a temporary filling will be placed to protect the tooth between appointments. During the follow-up visit, the dentist will remove the temporary filling, re-clean the root canal if necessary, and then seal the tooth with a permanent filling or crown.