Modern dental patients should feel lucky -- unlike past generations, we live in an age where an infected tooth can be treated and restored. Root canal therapy, sometimes called endodontic therapy, has become a routine dental treatment and can remove the cause of discomfort from inside a tooth before more serious problems result.

Most people roll their eyes at the mention of a “root canal,” but these feelings come more from myth and misinformation than real cause for concern. In reality, root canal therapy is designed to eliminate tooth pain and is a relatively straightforward procedure.

The Root of the Problem

The interior of a tooth contains nerve material that originally helped it to develop and grow -- in adult teeth this material does little more than help sense heat and cold. Occasionally, bacteria may reach this inner “pulp” and cause discomfort and inflammation. The diseased material must be promptly removed by your dentist to preserve the surrounding tooth and gums. A root canal can save the healthy portion of the tooth and prevent swelling or infection.

What’s Involved?

Often, an X-ray during a regular checkup will reveal signs of internal tooth degeneration. In other cases, you may make a special dental appointment after feeling some pain in an affected tooth. Either situation is cause for restorative root canal therapy.

During your appointments, your dentist removes the inner tooth material and fills the void with a rubber-like compound. This helps preserve the healthy tooth structure and inhibit future bacteria. When the affected area has been cleaned and filled, the tooth is covered with a tooth-colored crown.

Root canal therapy saves healthy teeth by removing the source of infection. The treatment is usually completed in one to three appointments.

Talk to Your Dentist

Of course the best time to catch a potential problem is before you experience any pain. Be aware of the condition of your teeth and discuss your treatment history with your dentist. Make sure to let your dental team know if you:

-Feel discomfort in a tooth or swelling in the surrounding gums

-Have had an accident or incident involving trauma to the teeth

-Notice chips or cracks in your teeth that may allow bacteria inside

-Are feeling any unusual discomfort or unfamiliar feelings in your teeth

Ask your dentist about your treatment options and whether root canal therapy is an appropriate solution for your dental needs.

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