What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure used to treat inflamed or infected pulp within the tooth. The pulp of a tooth is composed of nerves, blood vessels, and immune system cells. Some causes for inflamed pulp include deep decay, trauma and cracks. If the tooth is not properly treated then an abscess may develop.
What occurs during the procedure?
During root canal treatment, local anesthetic is used to numb the infected tooth and allow the patient to be comfortable during the procedure. A small opening is made into the tooth in order to gain access to the pulp chamber. Following this, the infected tissue is removed and the canal is cleaned. After the infection has been removed, the space is filled with a root canal filling material called gutta percha. A filling or crown is then placed on the tooth.
