Root Canal (Endodontic Therapy)
A root canal is a procedure that removes the soft tissue, on the inside of a tooth, then seals the
canals of that tooth.
Need: There are many reasons why a root canal may be needed for a tooth. Usually
the need arises when the pulp chamber as been exposed to bacteria and an
infection has begun. The following items may be reasons why a root canal would be
diagnosed:
- Decay has progressed into the pulp chamber (nerve center).
- There is a fracture that resulted in the nerve of the tooth being exposed.
- There is a lesion (infection) at the apex or end of a tooth that was found on X-Ray.
 Treatment appointments: A root canal is done in either one, two or three
appointments. The first goal is to remove the infected tissue from the inside of
the tooth. If the conditions allow, the canals can be sealed at that time, if not
another appointment would be necessary.
Future Treatment: Usually a tooth that has had a root canal will require some
type of restorative treatment. What type depends upon how strong the tooth is, esthetics and function.
Prognosis: A tooth treated with a root canal has a high likelihood
of long term function. However, the degree of tooth or bone lose that made the
root canal necessary can decrease the length of time the tooth will be
serviceable.
Alternatives: The only alternative to a root canal is an
extraction.
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