Root Canal treatment

Inside the tooth, under the white enamel and a hard layer called the dentin, is a soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue and helps to grow the root of your tooth during development. In a fully developed tooth, the tooth can survive without the pulp because it continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it. Endodontic treatment treats the inside of the tooth, the treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected.

The inflammation can have a variety of causes; deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, faulty crowns, or a crack in the tooth. In addition, trauma to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

During root canal treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth.

Advantages of a root canal treatment

• Efficient chewing
• Normal biting force and sensation
• Natural appearance
• Protects other teeth from excessive wear or strain
• Maintain your natural smile, continue eating the foods you love and limits the need for ongoing dental work.

With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last as long as other natural teeth and often for a lifetime.