Lafayette, Colorado

Endodontic ( Root Canal ) Therapy

 

Root canal therapy is treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected.  During this procedure the nerve and pulp are removed, and inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.  Root canal procedures have the reputation of being painful.  Actually, most people report that the procedure is just like having a filling placed.  The discomfort experience in the period leading up to seeking dental care is truly painful, not the root canal procedure itself. 

 

Why damages a tooth’s nerve and pulp in the first place?  A tooth’s nerve and pulp can become irritated, inflamed, and infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the face. 

Why does the pulp and nerve need to be removed?  When nerve tissue or pulp is damaged, it breaks down, and bacteria begin to multiply within the pulp chamber.  The bacteria and other decayed debris can cause an infection or abscessed tooth.  An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the end of a tooth’s root.  In addition to an abscess, an infection in the root canal of a tooth can cause: 

 

• Bone loss around the tip of the root

• Swelling that may spread to other areas of the face, neck, or head

• Drainage problems extending outward from the root.  A hole can occur through the side of the tooth, with drainage into the gums or through the cheek into the skin.

What are the signs that root canal therapy is needed? 

• Severe toothache pain upon chewing, or biting pressure

• Prolonged sensitivity (pain) to hot or cold temperatures (after the cold or hot has been removed)

• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums

• A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums

• Discoloration (darkening) of the tooth                                                                Sometimes no symptoms are present.