General Info

Root Canal Therapy

Q:  What is a root canal?
A:  A root canal is performed when the nerve within the root of the tooth is too diseased to be saved and must be removed.  The diseased or dead nerve is replaced with a substance that will help preserve the function of the tooth. 

Q:  Why are root canals necessary?

A:  The most common cause is uncontrolled tooth decay.  When tooth decay begins, it penetrates the outer layer of enamel and creates a cavity.  If that process is not stopped, the decay will continue toward the nerve of the tooth.  Sometimes a tooth will become infected from within, causing an infection and/or abscess that can be terribly painful.  In addition to pain, other symptoms include swelling, tenderness, or pain when chewing.  If the infection affects the underlying bone then the affected area must be treated with antibiotics and may need time to drain before the root canal therapy can proceed.  Another cause is trauma to the tooth that injures the nerve.  Such injury can be caused by an automobile accident, a blow to the mouth, or when a tooth cracks or breaks spontaneously while eating.

Q:  How do I know if I need a root canal?
A:  Some indications of the need for root canal treatment may be spontaneous pain or throbbing while biting, sensitivity to hot and cold foods or an abscess (swelling).

Q:  How is a root canal performed?
A:   First the dentist will gain access to the pulp chamber of the tooth, much like filling a cavity.  The diseased pulp will be removed while leaving the canal intact.  The canal will be flushed out with special solutions and a medication is placed within.  A temporary crown or restoration will then be placed on the tooth, so you will not feel uncomfortable between dental visits.  Later, usually during another appointment, the root will be permanently filled with a material that will hopefully keep the canal intact for a long period of time.  The tooth will then need a permanent crown in order to re-establish normal form and function.  If treated early, root canal therapy need not be uncomfortable.
 

Q:  Is root canal therapy painful?

A:  The inside of the tooth is very sensitive, so your dentist will administer medication to make sure that the area is desensitized and you will not feel uncomfortable.  The procedure involves many steps and it often takes one to three dental visits to complete.
 

Q:  Will root canal therapy same my tooth?

A:   There is a very high rate of success (more than 90%), however, there are cases were the tooth is too damaged to save and require extraction.

Q:  Why not just pull the tooth?
A:  Losing a tooth can precipitate further teeth loss.  Saving the tooth maintains space, keeps other teeth from shifting, and eliminates the need and cost of a bridge or implant and crown.  Although seemingly expensive, root canals are actually quite cost effective.  Remember, once your teeth are gone, they're gone!

Dr. Katharine Jones

Dental Care Team

Trained in Aesthetic Dentistry

Testimonials