Root Canals (based on number of canals)
ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
Experiencing severe pain from a badly damaged tooth? Don’t
pull it out just yet. Ask your dentist if a root canal can save your tooth from
extraction.
When will you need a
root canal?
“Root canal” refers to the natural cavity inside your tooth
that contains the soft dental pulp that is made up of nerves and blood vessels.
The dental pulp can be damaged by:
· extensive tooth decay
· repeated dental procedures on the tooth
· large fillings
· crack or chip in the tooth
· trauma
When the pulp is damaged, it decays and becomes infested
with bacteria. The tooth becomes infected and abscess or pus forms at the end
of the roots. The abscessed tooth can cause pain and swelling that may spread
to the other areas of your head and neck. If left untreated, an abscessed tooth
can cause other serious dental problems.
What is a root canal
treatment?
Root canal treatment or endodontic therapy is a procedure
that removes the infected, injured or dead pulp and nerves from your tooth.
The pulp and nerves of the tooth are not vital. Once your
tooth fully develops and emerges from the gum line, the function of the pulp
and nerves of your tooth becomes limited to providing you sensations of heat
and cold. Removing the pulp and nerves will not affect the functioning of the
tooth.
After the pulp and nerves are removed, the tooth is cleaned,
disinfected and filled. A root canal treated tooth should be restored with a
crown to protect the tooth, prevent it from breaking and restore its function.