Root canal treatment is the removal of the small, thread-like tissue in the center of the tooth, the pulp. Once the damaged, diseased or dead pulp is removed, the remaining space is cleaned, shaped and refilled. This procedure seals the root canal. Years ago, diseased or damaged teeth were extracted. Today, with root canal treatment, even teeth that are about to be lost can be saved. The most common causes of pulp damage are:

Cracked tooth

Deep decay

Damage to the tooth due to a serious blow to the tooth in the past or recently.

When the pulp becomes infected or dead, if left untreated, pus can accumulate at the root of the tooth, forming an abscess in the jawbone. The abscess can destroy the bone surrounding the tooth and cause pain.

How is Root Canal Treatment Performed?

Root canal treatment consists of several steps that may require more than one session, depending on the situation. These steps are as follows:

First, a hole is drilled in the back of the front tooth or in the crown of the molar or premolar teeth.

After the diseased pulp is removed (pulpectomy), the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned, widened, and shaped for the root canal filling.

If more than one session is needed, a temporary filling is placed in the hole opened in the crown to protect the tooth between sessions.

The temporary filling is then removed and the pulp chamber and canal are permanently filled. A tapered, rubber material called gutta percha is inserted into each of the canals and usually cemented in place. Sometimes, a metal or plastic rod may be placed in the canal for structural support.

In the final step, a crown is placed over the tooth to restore its natural appearance and shape. If the tooth is broken, a post may be applied to repair the tooth before the crown is placed.

How Long Can a Repaired Tooth Be Used?

Treated and repaired tooth(s) can last a lifetime with proper oral and dental care. Since the treated tooth may reoccur, oral care and regular dental check-ups are necessary to prevent future problems.

Since the pulp that keeps the tooth alive is no longer present, the treated tooth becomes brittle and more susceptible to fracture. This is important when deciding whether to apply a crown or filling to the tooth after root canal treatment.

The most common method used to check the success or failure of root canal treatment is to compare the x-rays taken before treatment with the new x-rays. This comparison will show whether bone loss is continuing or if the bone is remodeling.