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Root canal

Sometimes root canal treatment is needed for two main reasons: infection or irreversible damage to the pulp. Root canal therapy is a specialized dental procedure that may help you save a diseased tooth. Inside each tooth is the pulp which provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth, it runs like a thread down through the root. When the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies. If you don't remove it, your tooth gets infected and you could lose it. After the dentist removes the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then your dentist places a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger.

Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile! Check out http://www.animated-teeth.com/root_canal/t1_root_canal.htm  for more information.

Why do I need root canal therapy?
Because the tooth will not heal by itself and the following may occur:

• Infection will spread
• The bone around the tooth will begin to break down
• The tooth may fall-out

Root canal procedure: unhealthy tooth, drilling, filing with endofile, rubber filling and crown

See other restorative services:

Composite fillings
Crowns
Fixed bridges
Implants
Root canal
Dentures and Partial Dentures

Images from The American Academy of Periodontology.