Endodontic Therapy (Root canals)

ENDODONTIC THERAPY (ROOT CANALS)

Endodontics (Root Canal Therapy) is necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, multiple dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, an injury to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abcess.

Signs root canal therapy is needed include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, tenderness to touch or chewing, discoloration of the tooth, swelling, and drainage. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms.

When endodontic therapy is performed, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed, the inside of the canal is carefully cleaned and shaped, then this space inside the tooth is filled and sealed with special materials to allow the tooth to heal. After healing is complete, a crown or other restoration is placed to protect and restore the tooth to full function.