Root Canals

Root Canals

A Root Canal, also referred as endodontic treatment, is the process of removing injured, infected or dead pulp from the tooth. During the root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed while the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed to maintain tooth health.

Root Canal is the term used to describe the natural cavity in the center of the tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue in the root canal, which is comprised of the nerve. Even if the nerve is removed from the tooth, it can function normally once the treatment has been completed.

Why do you need to remove tooth pulp?

If the tooth’s pulp is damaged, it will break down and bacteria can begin to spread and multiply within the pulp chamber. The bacteria and other decayed debris can cause a major infection or abscessed tooth. An infection to the tooth can cause:

• Swelling that could spread in the face, head and neck area
• Bone loss around the tip of the root of your tooth
• Drainage problems extending outward of the tooth.

What are the signs that this operation would be needed?

It is very possible that no symptoms would show. However, if you have:

• Major toothache pain chewing or applying pressure on the tooth
• You experience prolonged pain/sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Discoloration of the tooth (Darkening of the tooth)
• Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
• Very persistent or recurring pimple on the gum.

If you encounter any of these symptoms, make sure to give us a call so we can analyze your situation.

At River Valley Dental, we do most of our own Root Canals services but sometimes we might refer to an Endodontist (root canal specialist) when the roots of the tooth in question are somehow curved or abnormally difficult to treat.