Root Canal Therapy
When the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection, root canal therapy may be needed in order to save the tooth. This procedure involves removing the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay. The remaining outer tooth structure is filled with medicated dental materials, followed by a crown, in order to restore the tooth to its full function. Root canal therapy is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that would otherwise
Why extracting a tooth instead can cost more:
Removing a problematic tooth costs less initially, but is less-desirable both in terms of overall health and cost. The void left by extracting (or pulling) a tooth can affect the health of adjacent teeth by allowing them to drift in position, which changes how the upper and lower teeth meet when chewing. Your "bite" affects the health of remaining teeth and overall health, as efficient chewing is an important first step in the digestive process. Properly aligned teeth exercise each other and stimulate gum tissue as you chew. Pulling a tooth instead can cause new problems, and ultimately, be more costly than choosing to save the tooth.
Root canal therapy may be necessary when:
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
What root canal therapy may involve:
The procedure requires one or more appointments performed in our office or by an endodontist (a root canal specialist).
After numbing the area, a sheet of rubber is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva. The top of the
The crown will be seated at the next
Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will extend the life of your root canal treatment. You’ll receive instructions for proper home care from our staff.