Restorative DentistryRoot Canal Treatment

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that’s infected or damaged. It involves removing the infected tissue (pulp) from the tooth’s interior, cleaning and shaping the root canals, and then filling them with a material to prevent future infection. 

• Why it’s needed: Root canals are necessary when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, often involves pain, due to deep cavity, cracks, blunt trauma, or recurrent decay of previous fillings.
• The procedure:
  • The dentist will create an opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. 
  • The infected pulp is removed. 
  • The root canals are cleaned and shaped.
  • The root canals are filled with a sealant to prevent further infection. 
  • A temporary filling is placed, and a permanent restoration (like a crown) is placed to protect the tooth shortly after.

• Benefits: Root canals can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. 
• Recovery: Most people can return to their regular activities shortly after a root canal treatment.