A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form.
This rescue treatment is often necessary due to severe decay, dental trauma or persistent tooth pain. During root canal therapy the pulp chamber is disinfected and completely extracted. This inner area houses all the blood vessels and nerves in a primary tooth. The empty space is packed with filling material, and the tooth is officially restored. Pulpotomy saves teeth from extraction.
As each patient has unique needs, our dentists will comprehensively evaluate the symptoms and x-rays to determine the best course of action. Children generally have posterior teeth into their teenage years. Therefore, it is important to keep these teeth in place, if possible, for proper growth, development and mouth function.