Root canal therapy (endodontics) is needed when the nerve of a tooth is severely affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.

Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would have to be removed. Some patients believe that removing a tooth that has problems is the solution, but they may not realize that removing a tooth will ultimately be more costly, and cause additional problems for adjacent teeth.

Root canal treatment is highly successful, although on occasion, a tooth will have to be retreated due to a recurring infection.

Signs and symptoms for possible root canal therapy:

• An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold.
• Severe toothache pain.
• Sometimes no symptoms are present.
• Swellingand/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, interrupting the blood supply to the tooth.

A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a general dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).

While the tooth is numb, an access opening is made on top of the tooth, and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, removing the pulp, nerve tissue and bacteria. If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.

At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth. In addition, most teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function.

After treatment, your tooth may still be slightly sensitive to pressure, but this will subside as any inflammation diminishes. You will be given care instructions after each appointment. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the success of your root canal treatment.