Roots Endodontics, PLC, Brighton, Livingston County, Michigan – Dr. Mayank Vora, DDS

Root Canal Therapy

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What is endodontic (root canal) therapy?

To understand endodontic treatment, it is helpful to know something about the anatomy of the tooth. Inside the tooth, under the white enamel and a hard layer called the dentin, is a soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue, and creates the surrounding hard tissues of the tooth during development. The pulp extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the roots where it connects to the tissues surrounding the root. The pulp is important during a tooth s growth and development. However, once a tooth is fully mature it can survive without the pulp, because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it.

Millions of teeth are treated and saved each year with root canal, or endodontic, treatment. Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, old or leaking crowns, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, trauma to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulpal inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

During root canal treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or permanent filling for protection. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth.
Modern root canal treatment is very similar to having a routine filling and usually can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the condition of your tooth and your personal circumstances. You can expect a comfortable experience during and after your appointment.

Saving the natural tooth with root canal treatment has many advantages:

  • Efficient chewing
  • Normal biting force and sensation
  • Natural appearance
  • Protects other teeth from excessive wear or strain

Endodontic treatment helps you maintain your natural smile, and continue to eat the foods you love. With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last as long as other natural teeth, and often for a lifetime.

For further information click the links below:

http://www.aae.org/patients/treatments-and-procedures/root-canals/root-canals-explained.aspx

http://www.aae.org/patients/treatments-and-procedures/root-canals/root-canals.aspx