When the nerve of a tooth becomes injured, it can become inflamed and eventually die. This often occurs due to trauma—such as a fall or knock to the tooth—or from extensive tooth decay that has progressed deep enough to reach the nerve.
When this happens, we need to remove the nerve tissue and disinfect the inside of the tooth. This procedure is known as Root Canal Therapy.
What to Expect:
Root canal treatment is typically completed over 2 to 3 appointments, depending on the tooth and severity of infection. The steps include:
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Locating the canals inside the tooth roots
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Disinfecting and shaping the canals to remove bacteria and infected tissue
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Filling and sealing the canals to prevent future infection
Once root canal therapy is completed, it is highly recommended to place a crown on the tooth. This helps to protect the now-weakened tooth structure from cracking or breaking, restoring both function and strength.