Root Canal Therapy
What is a Root Canal?
What most of us call a ‘root canal’ is a misnomer and should be called a Root Canal Therapy or RCT. Root canal is the space in the core of each tooth that houses blood vessels and nerve that make the tooth vital.
The procedure to clean out the space and fill with special material is the root canal therapy.
Many of us also mistakenly think that the root of the tooth is taken out during the procedure. All of the solid structure of the tooth remains and only the root canal space is cleaned out. The structure of the tooth is in tact and is fully functional once restored.
There are many reasons why a tooth would need a root canal therapy. Most often it starts with pain that is then diagnosed with needing the treatment. The pain is not always present.
- A deep cavity
- A dental trauma such as bumping the tooth or a fall
- The breakdown of an old filling or crown
- A crack or chip in the tooth
- Extreme wear
- Extensive dental work in the past
A root canal therapy cannot be performed when there is not enough sound tooth structure remaining to restore the form and function of the tooth.
How do I know if I need a Root Canal Therapy?
Many patients usually experience some of the following symptoms:
- Pain ranging from dull ache to severe pain. Pain that has gone away and has come back then suddenly becomes severe. Any dental pain is not normal and should be checked by a dentist.
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold and or pressure
- Gum swelling or soreness
- Small pimple-like sore on the gum that may come and go
Call Dr. Lee for a consultation to see if you have any of these symptoms.