Root canals are tiny passageways that branch off from beneath the top of
the tooth, coursing their way vertically downward, until they reach the tip
of the root.
All teeth have between one and four root canals.
Many tooth problems involve infections that spread to the pulp, which is the
inner chamber of the tooth containing blood vessels, nerves and other
tissues. When the infection becomes worse, it can begin affecting the roots.
A traumatic injury to a tooth can also compromise the pulp, leading to
similar problems.
A diseased inner tooth brings a host of problems; pain and sensitivity are
some of the first indications of a problem; but inside, a spreading
infection can cause small pockets of pus to develop, leading to an abscess.
Root canal therapy is a remarkable treatment with a very high rate of
success, and involves removing the diseased tissue, halting the spread of
infection and restoring the healthy portion of the tooth. In fact, root
canal therapy is designed to save a problem tooth; before the procedure was
developed and gained acceptance, the only alternative for treating a
diseased tooth was extraction.
Procedure
Root canal therapy usually entails one to three visits. During the first
visit, a small hole is drilled through the top of the tooth and into the
inner chamber. Diseased tissue is removed, the inner chamber cleansed and
disinfected, and the tiny canals reshaped. The cleansed chamber and canals
are filled with an elastic material and medication designed to prevent
infection. If necessary, the drilled hole is temporarily filled until a
permanent seal is made with a crown.
Most patients who have root canal experience little or no discomfort or
pain, and enjoy a restored tooth that can last almost as long as its healthy
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