What are Root Canals?
A root canal is a restorative dental procedure designed to save a tooth by removing its infected or damaged inner pulp. Each tooth contains a central pulp chamber that holds blood vessels and nerves, which play a crucial role in keeping the tooth healthy and functional.
When this pulp becomes infected—often due to deep decay, trauma, or a cracked tooth—it can lead to intense pain, inflammation, and sensitivity. If left untreated, the infection can spread and potentially lead to tooth loss or other complications. A root canal eliminates the infection by carefully removing the pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then sealing it to prevent future issues. This procedure not only relieves pain but also helps preserve your natural tooth structure for long-term oral health.
Why Are Root Canals Needed?
The most common reason for needing a root canal is advanced tooth decay that has reached the inner pulp of the tooth. This typically happens when a cavity is left untreated and gradually worsens, allowing bacteria to penetrate deep into the tooth. Another common cause is a cracked or broken tooth, which can expose the pulp and make it vulnerable to infection.
Signs that you may need a root canal include persistent or severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, tenderness when chewing, discoloration of the tooth, or swelling around the gums. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to seek prompt dental care to prevent further damage and preserve your natural tooth.
Who is a Good Candidate for Root Canals?
To determine if a root canal is necessary, we’ll start with a thorough examination, which may include an X-ray to check for infection or exposure of the tooth’s pulp. If we find that a root canal is needed, we recommend scheduling the procedure promptly to prevent the pain, sensitivity, or infection from worsening.
Root canals are one of the most common and effective procedures in modern dentistry, helping to relieve discomfort and save natural teeth with minimal recovery time.
What Can You Expect When Having a Root Canal Done?
We begin the root canal procedure by administering local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment. A rubber dental dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and isolated. Once the area is prepared, we carefully remove any decay until we reach the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth.
Using specialized instruments, the pulp is gently removed, and the root canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. We then fill the canals with a medicated material to prevent future infection and seal the access point with a tooth-colored composite resin. After curing the filling with a special light, the rubber dam is removed, and you’ll leave the office feeling relief from pain and sensitivity—on your way to restored oral health.
