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Root Canal Therapy

Within each natural living tooth is an amazing system of nerves, blood, and connective tissue that nourish it. This pulp begins at the crown of the tooth and ends deep in the jaw bone at the end of root. Strong, healthy teeth protect the pulp and help keep the tissue alive.

However, when a tooth develops a deep crack or cavity and goes untreated, it becomes wide open to disease. Bacteria inside the mouth can attack the tissue causing infection if the pulp cannot successfully fight off the invaders. The pulp will eventually die.

If the diseased pulp is not removed, the bacteria can cause an abscess, or pus pocket, which forms at the end of the root. The abscess can cause severe pain and swelling. Left untreated it can damage the jaw bone and lead to tooth loss and other major health problems.

In the past, extraction was the only solution for a diseased tooth. Today, the preferred method of treatment is root canal therapy which allows you to retain your natural tooth and avoid problems that can affect neighboring teeth later on.

What happens during a root canal

Root canal therapy is a common procedure that is painless with adequate local anesthesia. We will first remove the entire pulp of the diseased tooth and clean and reshape the root canal. We will then medicate the area with antibiotics and apply a filling. If your tooth needs strengthening or restoration, we will put in a temporary plug which will be replaced with a permanent filling and crown during your second office visit.

Generally, root canal procedures can be completed in one or two office visits. With proper care and regular professional cleaning, your treated tooth could last your lifetime.

If you would like more information about root canal therapy, call 936-756-3611 or send us an e-mail. To schedule an appointment, go to Make An Appointment now.

Source: American Dental Association (www.ada.org)