Root canals are tiny passageways that branch off from beneath the top of the tooth, coursing their way down until they reach the tip of the root. Many tooth problems involve infections that spread to the pulp, which is in the inner chamber of the tooth and contains blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues. If the infection progresses, it can begin to affect the roots of a tooth.
A diseased inner tooth brings a host of problems, including pain and sensitivity, which may be the first indications of a problem. A spreading infection can also cause small pockets of pus to develop, which can lead to an abscess. Dental infections can develop as a result of:
• Cavities
• Tooth trauma
• Decay
Root canal therapy is a remarkable treatment with a very high rate of success that can halt the spread of infection and restore the healthy portion of the tooth. Root canal therapy is designed to save a problem tooth. Before the treatment was developed, the only alternative for treating a diseased tooth was extraction.
Root canal therapy usually entails one to three visits. During root canal therapy, our dentists will gently remove the infected tissues and fill the tooth with an elastic material and medication designed to prevent infection. The tooth is then sealed with a dental crown to restore its function and structure. Most patients who have root canal therapy at Potomac Dental Centre experience little to no discomfort or pain.