When teeth are subjected to decay, repeated fillings, fracture or trauma, the pulp of the tooth (the nerve and blood supply) is adversely affected. This may result in increased sensitivity to temperature or chewing and eventually lead to an abscess (infection) inside the tooth. Eventually, the abscess can infect the bone and compromise nearby teeth. While a traditional toothache commonly occurs, abscessed teeth often progress without pain. In our experience, more than half of abscessed teeth are discovered upon routine exam in patients who have no symptoms.
The choices for treatment of abscessed or severely hypersensitive teeth are usually limited to extraction or root canal therapy. A root canal procedure consists in removing the pulp, cleaning and sterilizing the canals and filling them with a special sealer. Since the root canal treated tooth is weakened and brittle, a full crown is needed to cover, reinforce and protect the remaining tooth structure. Often, a post and core buildup is needed to provide a suitable foundation for the crown. Properly treated, such teeth can last a lifetime and eliminate the need for more expensive tooth replacement.
Techniques for performing root canal therapy have come a long way, making the procedure quicker and more comfortable than ever before.
Your dentist in the practice can answer any questions you may have about root canal therapy.