Root Canals
A tooth's nerve and pulp which is located in the center of the tooth called the root canal, can become irritated and infected if there is deep decay, chips or cracks to the tooth, or if too many dental procedures have been performed on that tooth.
If at all possible, our first course of action is to save a tooth that has become damaged or infected, and we may recommend a root canal be performed as a way to save the tooth. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and then sealed. If left untreated, the tissue surrounding the tooth can become infected and an abscess could occur.
A tooth's nerve is not important to a tooth's health and function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. Its only function is to provide the sensation of hot or cold and the absence of this nerve will not affect the chewing function of that tooth.
Once the root canal procedure is completed, the pulp chamber is sealed with a composite tooth colored filling or a porcelain crown.
The Procedure
An opening is made through the top of the decayed tooth, then the pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned and shaped. The root canals are filled and the pulp chamber is sealed.
The Result
Relief from tooth pain and a restored ability to chew.
Here in our Palo Alto dental office, we offer General & Family Dentistry services, Cosmetic Dentistry and Dental Implants, Invisalign and Orthodontics, Porcelain Veneers and Porcelain Crowns, Teeth Whitening, and a wide variety of other dentistry services. Please call our Palo Alto dental office at 650.327.7525 or send an email to APPT@PaloAltoDentistry.com to find out more about our staff and services.
If you're located in the San Jose area, and are in need of dentistry services, please visit our San Jose dental office website at: www.SerenityDentistry.com or call 408.999.0444.
If you're in the Santa Cruz, Aptos, Soquel area and need dental services, please visit our website at: www.CreekViewDentistry.com or call 831.688.6531.
