Introduction

During your initial tooth development, the pulp (the “nerve” inside) is responsible for the formation and growth of the hard part of the tooth.

During your lifetime, the pulp may become diseased due to a variety of reasons including decay, trauma, deep fillings and cracks. These injuries to the nerve/pulp can quickly cause pain (but can sometimes be painless and symptom-free), inflammation or even infection of the tooth and the surrounding bone and soft tissue.

To eliminate the inflamed or infected pulp, your dentist can save the tooth by performing endodontic therapy (a root canal), or by extracting the tooth.

Endodontic therapy can usually be accomplished in one or two visits. After we have completed your treatment, we will send a report to your dentist. We advise you to return to your dentist promptly to have a permanent filling or crown placed on your tooth.

Today, getting root canal treatment is often no more uncomfortable than having a filling.