Endodontics & Root Canals

What is a Root Canal?

The root canal procedure eliminates the decayed and damaged pulp from inside of a damaged tooth. The tooth is then filled with medicated dental materials, restoring its function.

Signs & Symptoms

The following symptoms may indicate that you need a root canal:

• Gums displaying an abscess (or pimple)
• Hot and cold sensitivity
• Toothache pain that is severe
• Tenderness and/or swelling

Preserving Natural Teeth

A root canal procedure allows your dentist to save a damaged tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted.

Retaining the natural tooth is preferable to extracting it if at all possible. Missing teeth can bring about complex dental problems that can be difficult and costly to repair.

The surrounding teeth may eventually shift into the gap, causing misalignment. The jaw bone around the gap may begin to deteriorate, eventually resulting in facial collapse.

While a root canal is not in itself a simple procedure, it is preferable to the procedures that may be necessary to repair the potential damage done by a missing tooth.