When tooth decay or damage reach beyond the outer layer of enamel to affect the inside of the tooth, you need more help than a simple filling or other restoration can provide. A root canal can eliminate pain and allow the tooth to be maintained so it does not need to be extracted. You may need root canal treatment if you experience the following:
Your dentist will examine the affected tooth and put together a treatment plan to restore your oral health as quickly and effectively as possible. Most root canal procedures are highly successful. The treatment is usually completed over the course of two visits. In the first appointment, your dentist removes all of the infected tissue from the interior of your tooth, reshapes and measures the root canals. At the second visit the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material known as gutta percha. A temporary filling is usually placed on top of the treated tooth in between appointments.
