Endodontic Root Canals

When decay or damage reaches the pulp chamber of the tooth, it can cause severe infection and inflammation. Because it affects the nerve tissue, the pain is usually enough to get patients in the dental chair. But if left untreated, a soft tissue infection can cause severe pain and swelling across the face, and may spread to other parts of the body.

A root canal, also known as endodontic treatment, can provide immediate pain relief, and put a stop to the infection. Though it may sound scary, a root canal is typically no more painful than a filling.

We start by numbing the area and administering sedation as needed. Then, we use precision instruments to remove the nerve and soft tissue in the root. This tissue is not essential to the tooth’s function, and removing it eliminates the source of pain and infection.

When it’s all cleaned out, we fill and cement the area with biocompatible material, then completely seal it off so it’s no longer at risk for infection. The tooth will usually need a crown or other restoration following the root canal.