Root Canal Q & A
What is the root canal?
It is the space within the roots of teeth occupied by the pulp ("nerve").
Treatment involves one or more visits using a local anesthetic, the same anesthetic that's used for a filling or a crown. Nitrous oxide ("laughing gas") is also available if requested. An opening is made through the top of the tooth, and the diseased pulp is carefully removed. The pulp is the soft tissue that is made of the blood vessels and nerves that lies inside the tooth. Each canal is thoroughly cleaned and shaped and then sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering the pulp chamber. Once the root canal is completed the tooth is usually restored with a crown. If additional support is needed, a post is placed prior to having the crown fabricated. The crown, and the post (if needed), are made to prevent fracture of the treated tooth.
Common questions:
- What causes the pulp to become injured?
The most common causes are a deep cavity, a cracked tooth or a traumatic injury that allows bacteria to enter the pulp.
- Why remove the pulp?
If an injured pulp is not removed the tissues that surround the tooth become infected, resulting in pain and swelling. Even without pain, the bacteria will attack and damage the jaw bone.
- Why save the tooth?
When a natural tooth is removed and not replaced, the surrounding and opposing teeth may tilt or extrude, leaving them more prone to destructive bite interferences and gum disease.
What to expect:
The tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be tender for a few days after treatment as a result of manipulation and previous condition of your tooth. A combination of Advil and Tylenol is generally enough to relieve discomfort. On occasion, a stronger pain medication is needed and an antibiotic may also be prescribed if there is acute infection and/ or swelling. Regular hygiene can be continued, but one should avoid chewing on the tooth until it is properly protected.