Root Canal

A root canal is a dental procedure performed when tooth decay has reached a tooth’s nerve or the tooth has become infected. During the procedure, the tooth’s pulp chamber- the area that houses the blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue- is removed and replaced with a suitable filling material. This pulp lies in a canal that runs through the center of the dentin, the hard tissue on the inside of the tooth that supports the outer level of tooth enamel. The pulp extends to the tip of the root that lies in the jaw bone.

The root canal procedure, also known as root canal therapy, has a reputation for being painful, but the procedure actually relieves pain. With the use of the latest technologies and anesthetics, root canal treatment today is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. This procedure is a painless option to saving a tooth that might otherwise be removed.

Root canal therapy is performed by a dentist or endodontist and requires up to three visits for completion.

First, the dentist drills down to the root through the top of the tooth. The dentist removes the pulp, places medication into the tooth and uses a temporary filling to cover the hole.

Subsequent visits involve the dentist widening the root canals and placing a filling inside. The procedure usually takes less than two hours to complete and contrary to popular belief, the most uncomfortable part about the procedure is keeping the mouth open for an extended period. Local anesthetic is administered prior to the procedures.