Why do I need root canal treatment?

• Trauma
• A deep cavity
• Danger of infection spreading
• A cracked tooth
• Issues with a previous filling
• A non-vital tooth (a dead tooth)
• Chronic tooth pain from contact with hot or cold liquids
• Pain from pressure or biting down

The Problem:

• Teeth needing root canal treatment typically develop infection leading to intense pain
• If not treated, the infection can be trapped in the bone supporting the teeth and progressively get worse

What is root canal treatment?

• The cavity, crack, or healthy tooth structure leading to the inflamed or infected pulp (where the nerve of the tooth resides) is removed followed by removal of the nerve and blood vessels inside the dental pulp and root structure.  Once this is removed, the root canal(s) are cleaned and shaped to eliminate the infection before being filled with a dental material that prevents bacteria from living inside the tooth.