What Happens During a Root Canal

What Happens During a Root Canal

A root canal is a common dental procedure performed in the United States, and it is done to treat and repair teeth affected by decay. Here, we will briefly go over what the procedure does, how it’s performed, and signs that a person may need to undergo a root canal.

 

What is a Root Canal?

The root canal procedure is a dental procedure used to treat and repair tooth decay. Each tooth has a natural cavity in the center of the tooth that is filled with soft pulp and nerve endings. When the tooth becomes decayed or infected, dentists perform a root canal to remove the affected pulp.

How the Process Works

Root canals are designed to treat decay and treat and prevent  infection by removing the affected tissue and sealing the natural tooth cavity, thus preventing future infection. Because the pulp and nerves on the inside of the tooth aren’t vital to the normal function of the teeth, they can be removed when infected without interfering with tooth health or function.

Why Root Canals Might Be Necessary

When nerves and pulp become damaged, the tissue breaks down, causing bacteria to grow and multiply inside the natural tooth cavity. This causes infection and decay, eventually leading to abscessed teeth and bone loss around the tooth root. If you are experiencing severe, persistent tooth pain, prolonged tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, darkening of the teeth, or swelling and tenderness of the gums, then you may need a root canal.

 

For those who need them, root canals are vitally important to maintaining oral health. For more information, call John Carson DDS at (520) 514-7203. We are one of the most trusted dentists in all of Tucson. Utilizing the latest technology to provide personalized dental care, we specialize in a range of dental procedures, including root canals, teeth whitening, and dental crowns.