Root Canal Therapy
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Root Canal Therapy
The hard outer part of the tooth, called enamel, works hard to protect the soft center of the tooth. However, when a cavity forms that erodes a hole in the enamel, the soft nerves and pulp at the center of the tooth is open to the risk of infection. Once this occurs, the entire health of the tooth is at risk. Vital nutrients that were once distributed throughout the tooth thanks to the roots are now cut off, which can lead to the tooth starting to die.
Root Canal Treatment
Root canal therapy is the procedure that removes the infected pulp from the center of the tooth. After it is removed and the inside of the tooth is properly sanitized, it will be sealed to prevent bacteria from getting back into the center of the tooth. A root canal treatment can actually stop the process of a tooth dying and helps to prevent the need to extract the tooth.
Signs that you may require a tooth root canal:
- Gums that are red, irritated or bleeding
- A bump or several bumps in the gum near the affected tooth
- Discolored tooth
- Pain in the tooth that can be mild, severe or just show itself when biting down
Your root canal dentist will do an x-ray and thoroughly examine the area to determine if a root canal surgery is needed. After a root canal, the top of the tooth will need to be replaced with a dental crown that can help restore the natural look and strength of the tooth.