Has your dentist or endodontist told you that you need root canal treatment? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of teeth are treated and saved each year with root canal (endodontic) treatment, and this simple procedure can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for dental implants or bridges.
Inside the tooth and under the white enamel and underlying dentin is a collection of soft tissue, blood vessels and nerves that help build the surrounding tooth. Infection of this pulp tissue can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks, chips, or even repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the inflammation or infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling, sensitivity to temperature changes, or pain in the tooth and gums.
If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist or endodontist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy is most commonly performed under local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. The tooth and surrounding tissues respond positively to therapy and heal in well over 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is low, you will be informed at the time of consultation or if a complication becomes evident during or after treatment.