Root Canal Therapy (Endodontics)

Endodontic therapy is a dental procedure where the inside of a tooth is cleaned out, the space disinfected and then filled. This procedure is also known as a “root canal”.

Sometimes infection or decay can reach the nerve of the tooth. The tooth may start to ache or become pressure sensitive. To save and preserve the tooth root canal therapy can be initiated. Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to two visits. This therapy permits the tooth to be saved and restores its health so that it can function normally and look natural. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile!

About that “nerve”

Each tooth root has a “canal” that runs through the tooth like a thread or the lead of a pencil. These root canals, which lie within the center of the tooth contain nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

A tooth’s nerve is not vitally important to a tooth’s health and function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. Its only function is sensory – to provide the sensation of hot or cold. The presence or absence of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day functioning of the tooth.

Some indications for endodontic therapy are;

• Pain while biting.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold.
• Deep decay.
• Blunt injury to the tooth.
• Infection (abscess)
  

What Damages a Tooth’s Nerve and Pulp in the First Place?

The nerve and pulp can become irritated, inflamed and infected or abscessed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth and/or large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the face.

Dr. Liang will numb the tooth to be treated, remove the pulp with specialized tiny instruments, clean the canal, fill it and seal it off to protect it. A crown may be necessary to make the tooth stronger.

Root canal procedures have the reputation of being painful. Actually, most people report that the procedure itself is no more painful than having a filling placed. The discomfort and toothache experienced in the period leading up to a seeking root canal therapy is truly the painful period of time, not the root canal procedure itself.

Please contact our office for more detailed information. If you need endodontic therapy we will do our utmost to make it a pain-free experience.