What is a Root Canal?

If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or sensitivity in your tooth, you may need root canal therapy. Root canals are a common and effective solution for saving a damaged or infected tooth and preventing the need for extraction.

What exactly is a root canal? The internal tissues of a tooth are removed during a root canal dental surgery. The procedure entails extracting the infected pulp, cleaning and shaping the interior of the tooth, and filling it with a particular substance to stave off further infection.

A root canal is necessary when the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or inflamed. This can be caused by decay, injury, or a crack in the tooth. Without treatment, the infection can spread, causing pain, swelling, and even abscesses. A root canal can effectively remove the infection, restore the health of the tooth, and prevent the need for extraction.

The Root Canal Procedure

• Your dentist will numb the area around the tooth and place a rubber dam to protect the rest of your mouth.
• They will then make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp.
• The damaged or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped.
• The root canal is then filled with a special material, and a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth.
• In a follow-up visit, the temporary filling is removed and a permanent filling or crown is placed to protect and restore the strength of the tooth.