Root Canal Treatment
What Is A Root Canal?
When the nerve in a tooth dies, the infected tissue must be
removed by either extracting the tooth, or performing a root
canal. Removing the infection from the tooth and filling the
canal where the nerve was removed is called a root canal (also
known as endodontic treatment).
Why Would A Tooth Need A Root Canal?
The nerve in a tooth can become infected for many reasons. For
example, an area of deep decay could involve the nerve, or the
accidental fracture of part of the tooth could expose the nerve.
Sometimes, just a blow to the tooth can cause the nerve to die
and become infected. In any case, when the nerve becomes
infected, the nerve tissue must be removed by either extracting
the tooth, or performing a root canal (endodontic treatment).
Ideally, the root canal should be done before the infection has
a chance to get into the bone and the area develops extreme
swelling and pain. Periodic dental examinations and having your
tooth checked when it first begins to hurt will usually help
avoid severe complications.
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