Root Canal Treatment
When the root pulp of the tooth is inflamed or infected as a result of trauma or decay, root canal treatment (RCT), or endodontic treatment, may be recommended. When the infected pulp is left untreated, pain may develop and/or an abscess may form.
Root canal treatment is considered a conservative approach for the treatment of a severely damaged tooth because it saves the tooth structure and maintains tooth function. The alternative treatment would be extraction, followed by the fitting of a bridge, removable denture, or implant.
During RCT, the top of the tooth is opened to access the pulp chamber. The tooth pulp, soft tissue inside the pulp chamber and root canals that includes nerves and blood vessels, is removed. The chamber and canals are then thoroughly cleaned and shaped, removing all infected tissue and preparing the space for filling. When it is confirmed that the infection is gone, the chamber and canals are filled with gutta percha, a natural latex rubber, and sealed to prevent bacteria from reentering the tooth. RCT is completed with a crown, which helps to seal and strengthen the tooth.
After RCT, the tooth no longer has blood supply nor nerve endings, so proper care and maintenance is essential for the longevity of the tooth. With regular brushing, flossing, dental visits, and crown maintenance, the tooth can function indefinitely.