Root Canals
"You need a root canal" may be the phrase most dreaded by dental patients. But a root canal can save an infected tooth or a tooth that has been injured. If one of your teeth needs a root canal, your DHA dentist will explain why and make sure that you are comfortable during and after your procedure.
Anatomy of a Root Canal
Inside each of your teeth is the pulp, which provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth. Once the pulp has been irreversibly infected or injured, the pulp must be removed. Removing the pulp will prevent chronic pain or infection that could lead to the loss of your tooth. During your root canal, your DHA dentist will remove the pulp, clean the interior of your tooth, seal it, and replace the pulp with a rubber compound called gutta percha. The tooth will be capped with a filling.
pulp and root canal
of an infected tooth
stages of a root canal
After your root canal is complete, your tooth will no longer have the pulp bringing it nutrients, may become brittle and may change color. Your DHA dentist will install a crown over your tooth to increase its durability and function and restore it to its natural color.
Contact one of our clinics to schedule an appointment. We are happy to help!
Root Canal Pod Cast
You think you may need a root canal? Many people do — and it's not as bad as you think. Dr. Brett Veerman explains the procedure and what you can expect.
Root Canal FAQs
Can You Save My Tooth Without a Root Canal?
The only alternative for a diseased or infected tooth that needs a root canal is to extract the tooth. The loss of the tooth can lead to a decrease in function and possible positional changes for the remaining teeth.
How Long Will My Root Canal Take?
Treatment usually involves one or two visits. During treatment your DHA dentist or Endodentist (a dentist who specializes in problems of the tooth pulp) will remove the diseased pulp, clean, shape, and fill the canals of your tooth. Depending on which tooth is being treated, a typical appointment could last one to two hours.
Will It Hurt?
A root canal treatment is a routine procedure much like fillings and crowns. Local anesthetic is used to numb the nerve of the tooth. Your DHA dentist will make sure that you are comfortable before and after the procedure.