Root canal or endodontic treatment involves removing infected or damaged tissue from the central chamber or the root canal of a tooth. This tissue, called the pulp, contains nerves and blood vessels that help nourish the tooth. After the pulp is removed, the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned, disinfected, filled and sealed. The benefit of endodontic treatment is that it saves teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Although the pulp is removed, the treated tooth remains viable, nourished by the surrounding tissues.

 

There is no real substitute for your own tooth in terms of health and investment. Root canal treatment may require one or several visits and is always preformed under rubber or dental dam. With proper care and restoration, the tooth may last a lifetime.