Dental infections or traumatic injuries to a tooth can results in very serious damage, severe pain, and general discomfort. If left untreated it can also result in the loss of the tooth. Fortunately there is a solution: root canal therapy.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is more often simply referred to as “root canals” colloquially. However, this doesn’t tell the whole story since all teeth have root canals, which play a crucial role in the formation and health of the tooth. The root canal itself is the anatomical space within the root of the tooth which houses a connective tissue called the dental pulp. Dental pulp is comprised of blood vessels, nerve tissue, and other cellular bodies. It is the pulp that nourishes and hydrates the tooth structure, keeping it viable and healthy. When a tooth is damaged, as a result of physical trauma or an infection, the root canal may become inflamed and the dental pulp responds by sending pain signals.
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is a method of alleviating that pain by treating the root canal. It involves removing the inflamed dental pulp, decontaminating the root canal structure, and then filling the empty space with an inert material and sealing the opening. A crown is then often fitted to the tooth to prevent damage since the tooth will no longer be nourished by pulp.
The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy may seem extreme, and indeed it is more extensive than dental fillings and other first line of defensive methods of treating the tooth; however, it is a very important way to contain the damage. Root canal therapy has a number of important benefits.
The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Saves the diseased tooth
- Eliminates the infection
- Stops the pain
- Preserves the dental contour and bite
Weaver Jaynes DDS’ Root Canal Therapy
For some people the mere mention of the words “root canal” can cause serious panic. However, our patients can rest assured that Weaver-Jaynes DDS is committed to providing outstanding, safe, and effective root canal therapy. We are also sympathetic to our patients’ anxiety and will take the time to carefully explain the procedure and ensure that the patient is relaxed and comfortable. We even offer sedation dentistry for maximum calmness and comfort.