The purpose of a root canal is to preserve a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted due to infection in the tooth’s soft interior, or pulp. Without root canal treatment, the tooth would probably have to be extracted. However, if the infected tissue is removed, you can expect to keep your tooth for many more years.
The Purpose of a Root Canal
Infection in the tooth’s interior usually occurs when the hard outer layers of enamel and dentin are cracked, broken, or otherwise compromised due to trauma or severe decay. The damage to the tooth allows bacteria to enter the root canal, which is another name for the cavity inside the tooth. A tooth that has been broken off, cracked, or has suffered extensive decay is more vulnerable to this kind of infection. Under normal circumstances, the hard outer layers of the tooth would protect the tooth pulp.
An infection inside the tooth can cause severe discomfort. Most people who need a root canal procedure have been experiencing severe toothache or extreme sensitivity for some time. Treating the tooth will eliminate these symptoms and make it possible to keep the tooth rather than having it extracted.
The Root Canal Therapy Procedure
A root canal procedure is similar to a restorative filling, but is a bit more invasive. Your endodontist will create a small hole in your tooth. Files of various sizes are used to remove all the infected tissue. The tooth is then thoroughly disinfected and filled with a special substance to keep it strong and also to prevent additional infection from developing. After completion of this procedure, your tooth will be treated with a dental crown, ensuring that you will be able to use your tooth well into the future.
If you are experiencing any symptoms that could indicate damage to the tooth pulp, contact our team at Access Endodontics as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and a recommendation for treatment.
