Root Canal Treatment
SERVING PATIENTS OF ALL AGES
A root canal is treatment for infections in tooth pulp, the innermost layer of your teeth. Endodontists and dentists do about 15 million root canals in the United States every year. Typically, root canals are painless treatments. You can avoid needing a root canal by brushing your teeth after meals, flossing daily and having regular dental checkups.
Root Canal Treatment
What is a root canal?
A root canal (endodontic therapy) is a dental treatment for infections in tooth pulp, the innermost layer of your teeth. Endodontists and dentists do about 15 million root canals in the United States every year. Often, you can avoid needing a root canal by taking care of your teeth.
Why would I need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if bacteria inside your mouth invade the pulp inside your tooth and cause inflammation (pulpitis). Your tooth pulp may come under bacterial attack if:
- You have a deep cavity that needs treatment.
- You have a cracked or damaged tooth, and bacteria from plaque infects your tooth pulp.
Risks / Benefits
What are the potential risk of root canals?
Root canals eliminate tooth infections that, left untreated, could cause serious issues like
- Infection that spreads to other teeth.
- Jawbone damage.
What are the potential benefits of root canals?
Sometimes root canals fail because they weren’t the right solution for your tooth infection. For example, if your tooth is very damaged, a root canal may not solve your issues. If your root canal fails, your healthcare provider will discuss other options:
- Removing (extracting) your infected tooth and replacing it with a dental implant or dental bridge.
- Re-treating your infected tooth by doing another root canal.