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Root Canal Treatment

What Is a Root Canal?

Root canals are tiny passageways that branch off from beneath the top of the tooth, coursing their way vertically downward, until they reach the tip of the root. All teeth have between one and four root canals!

Many tooth problems involve infections that spread to the pulp, which is the inner chamber of the tooth containing blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues. When a tooth infection becomes worse, it can begin affecting the roots. A traumatic injury to a tooth can also compromise the pulp, leading to similar problems.

A diseased inner tooth brings a host of problems including increased tooth sensitivity, toothache, and even severe tooth pain. However, a spreading infection can cause small pockets of pus to develop, which can lead to a gum abscess.

After advances in dental care and endodontics, root canal therapy was implemented to save a problem tooth. Before the procedure was developed and gained acceptance, the only alternative for treating a diseased tooth was extraction. Now, root canal therapy is a remarkable treatment with a very high rate of success, and involves removing the diseased tissue to halt the spread of infection, and restore the healthy portion of the tooth. 

Illustration by Ames Family Dental of a Root Canal Procedure

Root Canal Procedure

Many people wonder how long a root canal takes and what the root canal treatment steps are. Root canal therapy usually entails one to three visits. During the first visit, a dentist drills a small hole through the top of the tooth and into the inner chamber. Diseased tissue is removed, the inner chamber cleansed and disinfected, and the tiny canals reshaped.

The cleansed chamber and canals are filled with an elastic material and medication designed to prevent infection. If necessary, the drilled hole is temporarily filled until a permanent seal is made with a crown.

Most patients who go through this process experience little to no discomfort or pain after the root canal treatment. With proper dental hygiene, enjoy a restored tooth that can last almost as long as its healthy original!


Looking to restore your tooth back to health? Contact a root canal dentist today!

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