Root Canals

Preserving as many natural teeth as possible is the goal of dentistry. The health of patients with multiple missing teeth has been found to decline as they age. Oral health is so connected to the rest of the body that some illnesses can be discovered during a regular dental office visit.

When a tooth is damaged or infected, if the tooth root is still viable, a procedure called a root canal may be suggested. During a root canal, the tooth above the gum line is replaced while the root is treated and preserved inside the jaw.

A small hole is drilled for access to the root. The nerves and blood supply are cleaned out, and the inside of the root is sterilized. In an adult tooth, these nerves and capillaries are not required anymore, so this procedure does not damage the root.

Cement is used to fill the root, and the access hole is filled. The top of the tooth is prepared for the placement of a crown. A temporary crown is placed while the permanent crown is ordered. On a second trip to the office, the permanent crown will be cemented into place with a stronger adhesive.

Anesthesia is used for the first stage of this procedure but is not needed for the permanent crown to be placed. Neither visit will be painful.