What Is a Root Canal
Inside each tooth is pulp, which provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth. When the pulp becomes diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies. If it isn't removed, your tooth could become infected and you could lose it.
A root canal is a procedure performed to remove diseased tooth pulp and then fill and seal the space of the tooth with dental cement. Most of the time, it is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three appointments. Patients typically report that having root canal treatment today is as unremarkable as having a cavity filled.
Here's how your tooth is saved through root canal treatment:
- An opening is made through the crown of the tooth into the pulp chamber.
- The pulp is removed, and the root canals are cleaned, enlarged and shaped.
- Medications may be put in the pulp chamber and root canal(s) to help eliminate germs and prevent infection.
- A temporary filling is placed in the crown opening to protect the tooth between dental visits. Your endodontist may leave the tooth open for a few days to drain. You might also be given medicine to help control infection that may have spread beyond the tooth.
- The temporary filling is removed and the pulp chamber and root canal(s) are cleaned and filled.
- In the final step, a gold or porcelain crown is usually placed over the tooth. Your endodontist might recommend that you return to your family dentist for this final step.
- The crown of the tooth is restored.