Endodontic Treatment

(A.K.A Root Canal)

Inside each tooth, there is an anatomical structure known as a "pulp chamber" that contains the nerves and blood supply for the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected due to decay or injury to the tooth, the pulp must then be removed from the center of the tooth and the canals of each root. Once the infected pulp is removed, the remaining chamber is filled with a rubber-based material (known as gutta percha), which seals the now-emptied space.

Following endodontic treatment, the tooth is left in a weakened state and is susceptible to frature. To protect the tooth, and to ensure it's long-term viability, it <em>must</em> be protected by being prepared and covered with a crown.

Root canal therapy is an excellent way to save a tooth that might otherwise be lost due to decay and infection. On rare occasions, root canal therapy may need to be performed a second time to ensure that all of the infection has been removed.

Because root canal treatment is often the last option available to save a sick tooth, there really are not alternatives treatments other than extracting the tooth. Extraction, however, will require a dental implant or fixed bridge to fill the empty space and prevent the shifting of adjacent teeth. These solutions will ultimately cost more than root canal therapy, and they will never equal the quality of keeping your natural tooth.