WHAT ARE ROOT CANALS?

A root canal is a procedure that involves taking out the entire pulp of a tooth. Each of your teeth has a pulp, which is often called the nerve. If this pulp becomes infected by decay or is damaged in any way, it will need to be removed. You will find that an infected pulp becomes painful until it is properly removed.

WHY WOULD A ROOT CANAL BE NEEDED?

The main reason a root canal may be necessary is because a tooth has become infected by decay. If a tooth has broken severely, it might have exposed the crack fully, causing a lot of sensitivity and pain. In order to eliminate this pain, we recommend that the pulp be removed as soon as possible. This can even prevent an infection from developing as a result of leaving the pulp in place.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR ROOT CANALS?

The best way to determine if a root canal is needed is with an examination. We may take x-rays to better identify areas of decay or to see if a pulp has been impacted by a break or crack in the tooth. It is recommended that if you need a root canal, it be done as soon as possible to prevent problems. Our goal is to provide you with a healthy, pain-free smile as soon as possible.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE ROOT CANAL PROCEDURE?

The process starts with local anesthetic, which is used to numb an area of the mouth. We then work to remove the decay from the tooth and take out the pulp. The canals of the tooth are cleaned thoroughly and filled so that they do not become infected. Once this is done, we will recommend crowning the tooth to keep it fully protected. The root canal procedure takes about an hour in our office and allows you to leave pain-free.

If you would like to learn more about root canals and how they're performed, call us today and we can help to answer any of your questions.