Damage to the hard outer enamel of a tooth from a deep cavity or oral injury can allow bacteria to access a tooth’s inner structure. When this occurs, it can cause serious harm and pain. Once the tooth’s inner pulp becomes infected, the tooth will rot and may eventually require extraction. Root canal treatment, also known as endodontics, can save the injured tooth so that most of its original structure can be retained.

Typically, when a patient needs a root canal procedure, they are aware that something is wrong. There are several signs and symptoms that could indicate that there is an infection inside a tooth. These include:

• Severe tooth pain
• Sensitivity to cold or hot
• Tender and swollen lymph nodes
• Abscesses on the gums

When providing a root canal treatment, we start by taking digital X-rays so that we can see the extent of the damage. We will then apply a special rubber sheet around the tooth to keep the tooth dry and to prevent the infection from spreading during the procedure.

Once the tooth has been prepped, we will access the inside of the tooth from the top. The inside of your tooth will be carefully cleaned out so that no infected material remains. We will then use an antimicrobial liquid to flush out the root canals down to the jawbone. Finally, a material known as gutta-percha will be used to fill the tooth so that it regains its structure and integrity.

In most cases, we complete the process at your next appointment by applying a permanent dental crown on top of the tooth. This restoration will prevent future fractures or breakages.