Root Canals

Healthy Smiles for the Whole Family


What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a type of dental procedure that involves completely removing the inner pulp of a tooth. The pulp houses all of the nerve endings and blood supply that keep the tooth vital and healthy. Unfortunately, if the pulp becomes infected or compromised, it’ll need to be removed completely via a root canal. Root canals prevent the need for an extraction, which preserves the overall structure of the tooth while eliminating pain.

Why is a Root Canal needed?

The most common reason for needing a root canal is because a tooth is badly decayed. The decay might have had the chance to reach deep into the tooth, eventually affecting the pulp. If you’ve broken or cracked a tooth before, it might have damaged the pulp or left it exposed. In any case, the tooth may become painful and severely sensitive, so a root canal is necessary.

Who is a candidate for a Root Canal?

We can help in determining the need for a root canal with an exam and x-ray. The x-ray allows us to see if the pulp has been infected or damaged. If you need a root canal, it is recommended that the procedure be done as soon as possible to prevent further problems. Most patients who require a root canal will find that the tooth in question is severely painful and sensitive to both temperature changes and pressure.

What happens during the Root Canal procedure?

The procedure begins with a local anesthetic used to numb one area of your mouth. We then carefully isolate the tooth using a dental dam. The decay is removed from the tooth before the pulp is taken out. The canals of the roots are thoroughly cleaned out and filled with a special medicated material. The tooth is then sealed and filled before the dental dam is removed. You can benefit from a tooth that is still intact, but is no longer painful or sensitive.


If you think you might need a root canal, call our office today to speak with one of our team members so that we can get you in for a convenient appointment.

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