Rationale
A root canal can save a tooth when infection or inflammation affects the tooth's nerve. The center of each tooth is filled with a soft substance called pulp, which contains connective tissue, nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp is injured or diseased, all of the tissue inside the tooth dies. Death of the pulp can lead to infection and tooth loss if untreated, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Infection and inflammation can occur because of decay deep inside the tooth, a crack in the tooth's surface or after multiple dental procedures. While there might be no initial signs of a problem, an infected tooth can hurt when eating or migt be sensitive to cold or hot food or beverages. The area around the tooth might appear swollen and fluids might drain from the area around the tooth if there is an infection.
Pulp Removal
Patients receive a local anesthetic before root canal treatment begins. The procedure can be performed by a general dentist or an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in pulp problems, according to the ADA. After the treatment area is numb, the dentist uses a drill to make holes in the crown, or top, of the tooth, and in the pulp chamber at the center of the tooth. Using tiny instruments, the dentist removes the pulp and infected debris from the pulp chamber and the root canals that extend to the bottom of the tooth. The canals are cleaned and enlarged if necessary and medication is put in the tooth to kill bacteria that can cause infection.
Filling the Tooth
A special material called gutta-percha can be placed in the tooth to seal the root canal. Gutta-percha is an anti-bacterial, biocompatible material that expands and seals the hollowed area of the tooth within 15 minutes, according to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry. The tooth also can be filled with a resin material. Before the sealant is placed in the tooth, a small post might be added to the tooth if the tooth is not structurally sound. The dentist places a temporary or permanent filling in the hole after the canals are sealed. A temporary filling might be needed if an infection is present and the tooth must drain before a permanent filling is used. After the tooth heals, a crown is placed over the filling. A crown, or cap, fits over the entire tooth and protects it from damage. Crowns are made of porcelain, enamel or gold.
