Root
Canal
Therapy

Each tooth has at least one root, and each root contains a canal, traveling from the “pulp chamber” in the top of the tooth, down to the tip of each root. The root canal of a tooth is where the living nerves and blood vessels exist.

Root Canal

A root canal is a dental procedure performed to save an infected or inflamed tooth. The infected pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
Why is a Root Canal Necessary?
A root canal becomes necessary when a tooth's pulp becomes infected or inflamed. The tooth pulp is the soft tissue found in the tooth's center. It contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. This pulp is responsible for providing nutrients to the tooth and keeping it alive. It also acts as an alarm system, signaling pain when the tooth is damaged or infected. The most common reasons one may need a root canal are:

  • Deep Tooth Decay: When a cavity reaches the pulp.
  • Cracked Tooth: A crack in the tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria.
  • Repeated dental procedures: Multiple dental procedures on a tooth can weaken and make it susceptible to infection.

What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure

  • Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth.
  • Access Hole: A small hole is drilled into the tooth to access the infected pulp.
  • Pulp Removal: The infected pulp is removed using specialized dental instruments.
  • Cleaning and Shaping: The inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped to prepare it for filling.
  • Filling: The cleaned canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha to seal the tooth.
  • Restoration: A dental crown is often placed over the tooth to protect and restore its function.

After the Procedure

  • Pain Management: You may experience discomfort after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Sensitivity: The tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures for a few weeks.
  • Healing: The tooth will gradually heal over time.

Contact Us

To request a consultation or for more information, contact us today by calling (585) 461-4350 or by filling out the form below, and we'll be happy to answer all of your questions.