What causes an infected tooth?
When decay (cavities) are left untreated allowing bacteria to move through the outer layers of the tooth (enamel and dentin) to invade the inner most layer called the pulp chamber, the tooth becomes infected. The pulp chamber contains the nerves and blood vessels necessary to nourish the tooth. Once the bacteria invade the inside of the tooth an infection develops. The only way to save an infected tooth is to perform a root canal procedure. In most cases, root canal treatment is necessary because of three reasons:
- There is deep decay into the pulp chamber.
- There has been trauma to the tooth and/or there is an infection.
- The tooth has become sensitive to hot and/or cold due to various reasons including calcified canals.
Through the use of advanced technology of root canal therapy, many patients have been able to save their tooth that otherwise in years past may have been lost or extracted.
The procedure involves making a small hole thru the crown of the tooth into the pulp chamber, removing the infected nerve material, cleaning and shaping the canals with dental files, followed by placement of a filling material to seal off the canals. The restoration of the tooth will be completed with a core buildup, possible post, and full coverage crown to protect and restore the tooth to full function.
Root canal therapy saves teeth, prevents spread of infections to other teeth and helps to maintain a healthy mouth and beautiful smile.
