Root canals are standard dental procedures. They are done in order to save a tooth once the tooth’s pulp has become diseased or died. The process is extensive, but is worth it in order to save your tooth from extraction. If you have been told you may need a root canal, you may have some questions about the procedure.

Why a root canal?

Every tooth contains a tiny, thread-like tissue at its core called a pulp. This pulp is the living cells and connective tissue at the center of every tooth. Sometimes this pulp can become damaged or begin to die. A few common causes of this are deep cavities, a cracked tooth, or an injury to a tooth. When this happens, it is important that the pulp be dealt with early on, because if left untreated it can cause an infection in the roots of the tooth at the jawbone. This infection can cause an abscess, which can ultimately destroy the bone and cause significant pain. The root canal itself, is the procedure of removing the dead or damaged pulp in order to save the tooth. The technology of this procedure has improved significantly in recent years and as a result, many teeth that would have needed extraction in the past have been saved.

What is the procedure?

The procedure will ultimately be done over several office visits. This will ultimately depend on the severity of the diseased pulp. In most cases, the steps are as follows:

• The first step is opening the tooth. This means that the tooth will need to be opened in order to expose the pulp. In molars, this is done through the crown of the tooth. In front teeth, this is done through the back.
• Once the pulpectomy (removal of the pulp) is completed, the chamber that contained the pulp has to be cleaned. This also means that the canals have to be cleaned and enlarged, in order to be filled.
• At this point, a temporary filling may be inserted in order to get the tooth by in between dental visits.
• If a temporary filling has been inserted it will need to be removed prior to this step. Once the pulp chamber and canals have been cleaned, the tooth must be filled. Teeth are filled with a rubber like material called gutta-percha. Once filled, the canals and tooth are sealed with cement. In some cases, a metal or plastic rod may need to be inserted into the tooth for structural purposes.
• Once the tooth is filled, a crown is fitted over the tooth. This ensures that the tooth’s natural shape and function is restored. In some cases, depending on the severity of the damage, a post may need to be inserted in order to support the tooth.

If taken care of properly, the restored tooth (teeth) can last a lifetime. It is important to remember that although treated, the tooth can still decay. In some cases, the tooth can become brittle over time because the tooth no longer contains a living pulp. It is important to maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings after your root canal to ensure that your teeth remain healthy.