Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of the tooth is affected by decay, trauma or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated dental materials which restore the tooth to its full function. When needed a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would die and have to be extracted (removed). Many patients believe that removing a tooth that has a problem is the solution, but what is not realized is that extracting a tooth may ultimately be more costly and cause significant problems for adjacent and opposing teeth. Root canal therapy is highly successful and usually lasts a lifetime, although on occasion, a tooth will have to be retreated or extracted due to new infections.

Signs and symptoms for possible root canal therapy:

• An abscess or (or pimple) on the gums
• Lingering sensitivity (15 minutes or more) to hot and cold
• Tooth pain when biting
• Swelling and/or tenderness
• Throbbing

Reasons for Root Canal Therapy

• Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth)
• Infection or abscess has developed inside the tooth or at the root tip
• Injury or trauma to the tooth

What does root canal therapy involve?

A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by Dr. Poer or an endodontist (root canal specialists). A rubber dam (sheet of rubber) is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva. An access opening is made on the top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments. The roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will be placed to cover the opening on the top of the tooth. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment may require a crown, especially back teeth. This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function. After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed. Antibiotics are often prescribed by Dr. Poer to help with residual infections. You will be given care instructions after you appointment. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.