The hollow space inside a tooth contains soft tissue called the dental pulp.  Decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, or trauma to the mouth can cause the pulp to become irritated, inflamed or infected.  When this occurs, endodontic treatment is needed.  If left untreated, the result can be pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling, or a draining pimple on the gums.  During endodontic treatment (a "root canal"), the damaged or infected pulp is removed. After carefully cleaning and shaping the inside of the tooth, this space is then filled and sealed.  This simple treatment can save your natural teeth, preventing the need for extractions, and replacement of teeth with dental implants or bridges.

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Root canal therapy is routinely done in one or two visits.  After an examination, which includes x-rays, a diagnosis will be made and treatment options will be presented.  If endodontic treatment is elected, a local anesthetic is then administered.  The tooth is isolated with a thin sheet of rubber (rubber dam) to protect your throat and prevent contamination of the tooth. 

A small opening is made through the chewing surface of the tooth which allows access to the tooth’s pulp chamber and root canals. After determining the length of the canals, they are enlarged and cleaned with small instruments and disinfectants.  Your endodontist fills and seals the canal space.  A temporary filling is then placed in the access opening.

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When your root canal therapy has been completed by the endodontist, a report will be sent to your general dentist.  You should contact your dentist's office for a definitive restoration (post, filling, crown) of your tooth shortly after completion of treatment at our office.  You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored.  

 

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