Root Canal Treatment (Endodontic Therapy)

Endodontic Therapy is used to repair and save a tooth that has been infected due to a deep cavity or cracked tooth. The treatment involves removing the pulp (nerve and blood vessels) of the tooth, and cleaning and sealing the infected area. If left untreated, you may experience severe pain, swelling, and eventual loss of the tooth.

What are the signs that a root canal is needed?

• Tooth pain while chewing.
• Spontaneous or lingering tooth pain.
• Teeth that are highly sensitive to hot or cold.
• Discoloration or darkening of the tooth.
• Swollen gums in the area of the infected tooth.

Summary

Endodontic Therapy is common and has a high success rate. Every effort is made to utilize thorough anesthesia to make this a comfortable procedure. This treatment along with a proper restoration, usually a crown, will likely result in very long term retention of the tooth.