Why would I need a root canal?
Every tooth has a soft center which contains an organ called the pulp. It is commonly called the “nerve” of the tooth, but it is actually just tissue that once formed the tooth around itself. Because the pulp tissue retains a very limited circulation at the tip of the root, it is very delicate. If the pulp is irritated by a cavity (or its subsequent deep restoration) or a fracture or a blow to the tooth, it can become inflamed and eventually die. The problem is that this creates an ideal environment for bacteria. The bacteria can then multiply and exit the chamber of the dead pulp through the small opening where the blood vessels entered at the tip of the root. The result? Infection in the jaw bone with accompanying swelling and pain. The solution? Take away the home for the bacteria by removing the dead pulp and filling in the space. This procedure is called root canal therapy. If done correctly, meaning all of the pulp is removed and all of the residual space is filled in, the infection will heal and the problem is solved. This procedure without exception should be completely painless and require one or two visits to complete.
