Root canal treatment (also called Endodontics) is needed when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected through tooth decay or damaged by an injury to your mouth. This infection may spread through the root canal system, which could eventually lead to an abscess, causing a great deal of discomfort. If root canal treatment is not carried out, the tooth may need to be taken out.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is when the nerve and pulp in a tooth are removed in order to save a tooth which has become infected or decayed inside.
You may need a root canal if:
- You have an abscessed tooth (a bacterial infection at the root of the tooth)
- There is bone loss around the root of the tooth
- The root canal is infected
Unlike a tooth replacement using a bridge or partial denture, a root canal allows you to keep your existing tooth by removing the infected or abscessed pulp from the tooth and replacing it with a rubber like substance. After, the tooth is crowned or filled and will continue to function normally. If done right, a root canal is not any more painful than getting a filling.