Root Canals
In the past, injured or diseased teeth frequently had to be removed. Today, the tooth can often be saved through endodontic treatment, also known as a root canal treatment. This procedure may be performed by a general dentist or a specialist called an endodontist.
A root canal treatment generally involves the removal and replacement of a tooth’s pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue containing the blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. The pulp is found in a canal that runs through the center of the hard tissue on the inside of the tooth (dentin). If the pulp becomes damaged through injury or disease and cannot repair itself, bacteria and their products can leak into the pulp and cause the pulp to die. If a root canal procedure is not performed, an abscess can form at the tip of the root and cause considerable pain. Even if there is no pain, the bone anchoring the tooth in the jaw can be damaged. Without treatment, the tooth may have to be extracted.
During a root canal treatment, the pulp is removed and then the root is cleaned and shaped. Medication may be added to the pulp chamber and root canals to help eliminate bacteria. The root canal is then filled and permanently sealed.
Depending on its location in your mouth, the tooth must then be restored with a filling or crown. Crowns are made from a variety of materials, depending on the location of the tooth, the shade of the tooth and the amount of natural tooth remaining. The restored tooth can remain healthy as long as the surrounding tissues nourish its roots. Good oral hygiene at home and regular dental visits can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Dr. Vines or Dr. Kwong will happily address any concerns you have regarding endodontic treatment and the health of your teeth and its roots. Contact our office today!
A root canal treatment generally involves the removal and replacement of a tooth’s pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue containing the blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. The pulp is found in a canal that runs through the center of the hard tissue on the inside of the tooth (dentin). If the pulp becomes damaged through injury or disease and cannot repair itself, bacteria and their products can leak into the pulp and cause the pulp to die. If a root canal procedure is not performed, an abscess can form at the tip of the root and cause considerable pain. Even if there is no pain, the bone anchoring the tooth in the jaw can be damaged. Without treatment, the tooth may have to be extracted.
Depending on its location in your mouth, the tooth must then be restored with a filling or crown. Crowns are made from a variety of materials, depending on the location of the tooth, the shade of the tooth and the amount of natural tooth remaining. The restored tooth can remain healthy as long as the surrounding tissues nourish its roots. Good oral hygiene at home and regular dental visits can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Dr. Vines or Dr. Kwong will happily address any concerns you have regarding endodontic treatment and the health of your teeth and its roots. Contact our office today!