WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL? (ENDODONTIC TREATMENT)

Endodontic Treatment
 

Endodontic treatment involves removing the pulp and replacing it with a sterile root filling material. The pulp is only important during the tooth's development and is completely expendible once the tooth is fully mature. Removal of the pulp becomes necessary when it is damaged (inflamed) or killed (necrotic). It may be the result of infection from decay, fractures, trauma, or periodontal disease.
Signs of pulpal inflammation or infection include increased sensitivity to cold or hot foods or liquids and pain to pressure when chewing.

Spontaneous pain is often a symptom of the need for endodontic therapy. Sometimes a tooth which has already had a root canal
treatment needs to be retreated because an infection has developed around one or more of the roots. The endodontic procedure is done in a single appointment and ususally requires about 90 minutes.  There is
normally only a slight soreness after the procedure. The endodontists at the Endodonticsource work very hard to keep any discomfort to an absolute minimum. Our patients' comfort is a primary concern to all of
us.

LINKS

Animated Teeth.com - Good site with information on root canals.