Root Canals

When decay or damage extends through the outer enamel and dentine layers of a tooth into the inner pulp layer, a root canal can be the best way to eliminate your pain and prevent further damage without removing the tooth itself. During the procedure, we clean out this inner area of any bacteria and dead nerve or pulp tissue that are causing you pain. Once this is done, we’ll fill in the inner portions and seal it to prevent further damage.

Following this procedure, the tooth becomes brittle, requiring a crown be placed on it. We can take care of that, too. In the end, we eliminate the pain you’re experiencing while preserving your existing teeth and your smile.

Root Canal Procedure

• Tooth decay can cause an abscessed (infected) tooth.
• The decay is removed and an opening is made through the crown of the tooth into the pulp chamber.
• The pulp is removed, and the root canals are cleaned and shaped.
• The root canals and pulp chamber are filled.
• A metal or plastic rod or post may be placed in the root canal to help retain the core (filling) materials, which supports the restoration (crown).
• The crown of the tooth is then restored. If bone is lost due to infection at the root tip, this will heal over several months after the root canal is cleaned and sealed.