Root Canals

Why Do Teeth Need Root Canals?

Root canal treatment is done on teeth when the nerve is permanently damaged or infected. In this procedure, we drill into the inside of the tooth or the canal where the blood vessels and nerves of the tooth were found. We then clean and shape the inside canals of the tooth. We also rinse the inside of these canals with medicine to further clean the inside of the tooth. At the end, the tooth is filled with a material which fills and seals the inside of the tooth from further infection.

When do they Need Them?

Root canal treatment is done to eliminate pain and in most cases should not hurt during the procedure. In some cases, if the tooth is severely infected it may make it difficult to freeze the tooth which may lead to pain.

How Many Appointments Will a Root Canal Take?

Root canal treatment may take 1 or 2 appointments depending on the number of canals that are present in the tooth and usually one further appointment for a final filling.

Will the Tooth Hurt After a Root Canal?

After the root canal treatment, the tooth may be mildly sore but rarely as bad as before and should improve in a few days to a week.

Do Root Canals Ever Fail?

Root canals can fail because of difficulties in treatment, root fractures in the future, or accessory canals. However, in almost all cases this procedure will prolong the life of the tooth.

How Will my Tooth Function After a Root Canal?

After the procedure, the tooth will feel normal and should function as it did before. Your dentist may suggest a crown in the future to prevent further fracture of the tooth especially in back molars.