Theres no need to be worried if your dentist or endodontist prescribes a root canal procedure to treat a damaged or diseased tooth. Millions of teeth are treated and saved this way each year, relieving pain and making teeth healthy again.
Inside your tooth, beneath the white enamel and a hard layer called dentin, is a soft tissue called pulp. This tissue contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue, which help grow the root of your tooth during its development. A fully developed tooth can survive without the pulp because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it.
Root Canal Treatment Step by Step There is no need to be anxious if you need a root canal and youll see why here. This informative video walks you through each step of the procedure and explains how endodontists root canal specialists can save your teeth.
Its necessary to have endodontic or root canal treatment when the inside of your tooth (the pulp) becomes inflamed or infected as a result of deep decay, repeated dental procedures, faulty crowns or a crack or chip in the tooth. Trauma to your tooth may also cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, in can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
When you undergo a root canal or other endodontic treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection and will continue to function like any other tooth.
Endodontic treatment helps you maintain your natural smile, continue eating the foods you love and limits the need for ongoing dental work. With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
Dr. Craig Pulsipher has been in practice in Twin Falls since 1998. He attended dental school at Creighton University in Nebraska, and did his Endodontic residency at the University of Illinois in Chicago. Craig and his wife Sheila are originally from Brigham City, Utah. They have 5 wonderful children. 1 Grandson and another on the way. Craig loves to ski, travel, and spend time with his family whenever possible. Back To Our Team