Understanding the Root Canal
People often use the term root canal to refer to the dental procedure, but the root canal is actually the interior part of the tooth. The outer layer of the tooth is called the enamel, and this part simply protects the tooth and doesn’t have nerve endings. However, inside each tooth is a root canal, pulp, and nerves. These parts are what give your teeth their feeling and are the cause of all toothaches.
What Happens During a Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal treatment, also called root canal therapy, involves removing the pulp and nerves from an infected or damaged tooth. By doing this, we stop all pain associated with the tooth, and remove any infection that may be spreading within. Once the procedure is complete, we place a crown over the tooth to strengthen and protect it.
Benefits of Saving the Tooth
The main purpose of root canal treatment is that it’s often the only way to save a damaged tooth. Tooth canal treatment stops infection from spreading further by removing any affected areas. Here are some of the benefits of saving your tooth with root canal therapy rather than extracting it:
- Avoid the cost of purchasing a dental implant or partial denture to replace your extracted tooth. Even if it seems like getting rid of a problem tooth is the best option, it’s typically better to make every effort to preserve your natural teeth.
- Saving your tooth benefits your other teeth and your jawbone. Your teeth play a role in keeping the surrounding teeth and jawbone stimulated and supported. By preserving your natural tooth, you’re also preserving the jawbone.
- It’s the best option for your aesthetics. In general, it’s best to leave as many aspects of your natural teeth intact as we possibly can. By doing this, your smile stays well-aligned and we can add a crown that matches the color of your teeth.
Root Canal Therapy is Painless
Though it’s acquired a reputation as a difficult procedure, the fact is, modern root canal therapy is relatively quick and almost completely pain-free. In fact, the root canal treatment is often used to relieve pain, and is one of the easiest procedures for patients to undergo.
