Root Canal Therapy

Why is it necessary?

The classic toothache is usually due to a damaged or infected pulp tissue (you call it "the nerve"). Imagine this tissue to be the "wick of a candle." This tissue was responsible for the development of the tooth. Root canal therapy removes this damaged or infected tissue, thereby eliminating the pain. The dental pulp, or "nerve," can be damaged due to the following reasons.

  • deep decay
  • severe tooth fracture
  • repeated fillings over many years
  • associated severe gum disease
  • trauma

How is it done?

Select slide to view
deep decay, some pain
infection begins, more pain
tissue removed, pain lessens
canals filled, healing
tooth restored with crown

Local anesthetic is administered, and a small hole is made in the top or back of the tooth. A series of thin, flexible "files" are introduced into the roots to remove all remaining tissue and infection. Irrigating liquids are used to sterilize the inside of the tooth. Occasionally antibiotics are used to control infection. The cleaned canals are then filled with an inert, pink, rubbery-like material

Why do people loose root canalled teeth?

The rate of root canal failure, when properly performed, is in the range of 5%. So why do we hear many stories about the loss of these teeth shortly after treatment?

The greatest cause of tooth loss after root canal therapy is severe tooth fracture due to inadequate or improper reinforcement of the tooth.

Proper reconstruction with a core filling and crown will eliminate the potential for fracture.