Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp (soft tissue
inside your teeth containing blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue)
becomes inflamed or diseased. During root canal treatment, your dentist or
endodontist (a dentist who specializes in treating the insides of teeth)
removes the diseased pulp. The pulp chamber and root canal(s) of the tooth are
then cleaned and sealed. If the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling
can result, and your tooth may have to be removed.
Causes of an infected pulp could include:
•
a deep cavity
•
repeated dental procedures
•
a cracked or broken tooth
•
injury to the tooth (even if there’s not a visible crack or
chip)
If
you continue to care for your teeth and gums your restored tooth could last a
lifetime. However, regular checkups are necessary; a tooth without its nerve
can still develop cavities or gum disease. Most of the time, a root canal
is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to
three visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile.
Above
article from mouthhealthy.org
