SAVING THE TOOTH
In the past, if you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, you would probably lose that tooth. Today, with a special dental procedure called root canal treatment, you may save that tooth.
A root canal is a common and simple dental procedure that can save your natural teeth.
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Inside each tooth is the pulp and the nerve. The nerve is the vestige of the tissue that originally formed the tooth. The pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. The pulp can become infected due to trauma, deep decay, cracks and chips.
TREATING AN INFECTED TOOTH
When a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria can enter the pulp. Germs can cause an infection inside the tooth which can cause a visible injury, swelling or sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums. Root canal therapy removes the injured pulp and the canal is thoroughly cleaned and sealed.
Root canal therapy may be completed in one visit or it may require a second visit depending on the treatment required.
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A final restoration to protect the tooth following root canal treatment will complete the treatment. Root canal therapy is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort. Most important, it can save your tooth and your smile.
If the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result causing an abscess. This may lead to the removal of the tooth.
