Root Canal Therapy

What is a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy is necessary when a tooth's nerve is compromised by decay or infection. To preserve the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), along with the nerves, bacteria, and any decay, is removed. The resulting space is then filled with specialized, medicated dental materials that restore the tooth’s full functionality. This treatment is highly successful and can typically last a lifetime, although there may be instances where retreatment is required due to new infections.

Signs and symptoms for possible root canal therapy:

• An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, and/or to sweets.
• Severe toothache pain.
• Sometimes no symptoms are present.
• Swelling and/or tenderness.

Reasons for root canal therapy:

• Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
• Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
• Injury or trauma to the tooth.