Years ago, if your tooth had a diseased nerve, you would probably end up losing that tooth. Fortunately today, it is possible to save a tooth with nerve damage by having root canal therapy. Inside every tooth is the pulp which runs down to the root like a thread. The pulp tissue can die if it becomes diseased or injured. The tooth can get infected if the diseased or dead pulp is not removed. If the infected tooth does not get treated, you could lose that tooth.
A root canal procedure can possibly save your tooth and make it stronger after the infection. This may be done in a series of one to three visits and involves the removal of the diseased pulp. The pulp chamber and canals of the root are cleaned out, removing all of the diseased pulp tissue, and is then sealed.
Your treatment starts with an opening through the crown of the tooth to reveal the pulp chamber. The infected pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned thoroughly and enlarged. A temporary filling will be placed in the opening to protect your tooth in between visits. Medicine may be given if necessary to help control infection.
The next step involves filling and sealing the pulp chamber and root canals after the temporary filling is removed and the area is cleaned. The final step is placing a crown over the tooth to protect and seal the exposed tooth. Your tooth is now healthy and strong again. The restored tooth can last a lifetime if proper care is taken.
