Root Canals

If the central canal in your tooth becomes infected then you will need a root canal.  This central cavity contains the dental pulp which is a combination of nerves and blood vessels that nourish and provide sensation to the tooth. When the microbes in the mouth enter the pulp or central canal, they can infect the dental pulp and cause severe decay which results in a root canal infection. If not treated during the initial stages of the infection, it can intensify and possibly lead to tooth loss.

How is root canal therapy performed?

Root canal therapy is an option to treat a severely infected tooth. A rubber dam is placed on the tooth to isolate the infected tooth so that the tooth can be cleaned thoroughly. A small hole is made through the top of the tooth and the decayed pulp is extracted using dental files of varying sizes. The walls of the canal are scrubbed to remove the microbes and a jet of water is used to wash them thoroughly. Antibiotic medication can be placed in the root canal and the hole is sealed with a filling or build up material. The dentist will fabricate a customized ceramic crown and bond it to the tooth to hold it intact and restore aesthetics and function.