Root canal treatment is used to treat a tooth that has become infected or is at risk of developing an infection. The procedure saves the tooth by preserving the root, allowing the tooth to be restored with crown.
How does root canal treatment work?
When a tooth is damaged, the inner tissue of the tooth, called the pulp, can be exposed to bacteria. If this happens, a painful infection can result. The infection can spread from the tooth to the surrounding gums where it can form an abscess or weaken the tooth. If the infection isn’t treated in time the tooth can be lost.
Root canal treatment works by removing the pulp after the tooth is damaged or if the pulp has become infected. After the pulp is removed the tooth is sanitized to prevent further infection and then it’s restored with a crown.
Aren’t root canals painful?
Not anymore! Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but with modern treatments and anesthetic the procedure is almost like having a tooth filled.
A sharp, intense toothache can indicate a tooth is infected. Call our office to book an examination if you’re experiencing a toothache or if you’ve damaged a tooth.