Inside each tooth is an area called the pulp chamber. This area contains the nerve supply and blood vessels of the tooth. When decay has damaged enough tooth structure and comes close to or penetrates this area, an inflammation or infection results. This can cause anything from mild to extreme discomfort. If the decay is extensive and the inflammation in the nerve can’t be reversed, removal of the nerve supply and blood vessels in the pulp will be necessary. If the decay has caused the death of the pulp infection will result. It will then be necessary to drain this infection.
Removal of a damaged pulp or drainage of infection from inside the tooth is a part of what is commonly known as root canal therapy. Root canal therapy is successful in over 95% of the cases treated.
Today, root canal treatment is easier and more comfortable than at any time in the past. That’s because with advances in technology and knowledge most root canals can be completed in a single visit.
Normal dental anesthesia is used and the tooth and then a small opening is made to reach the pulp chamber. The damaged pulp tissue is removed and any infection present is drained. Then, the inside of the pulp chamber is cleaned of any diseased or infected tooth material and it is disinfected. Finally, the space once occupied by the nerve supply and blood vessels is filled with a rubber-like material. Meticulous care is required during each step. But once the procedure is properly completed there is a 95% certainty that it will be successful.
The damage done by the decay or injury that caused the need for the root canal usually significantly weakens the tooth structure. In order to keep the tooth from fracturing in the future we will reinforce the tooth with a buildup technique that restores some flexibility to the tooth. Then the top of the tooth will be covered with a crown or onlay.
We hope that all of your teeth will last a lifetime. But if your teeth should become injured or diseased, root canal therapy can often restore a tooth and give it a second chance.