Root Canals

Root canals are needed when decay, disease or injury cause damage to the sensitive tissues located in the middle of the tooth. This tissue, the dental pulp, contains nerves and blood vessels that can become inflamed or infected. When this damage occurs you won’t necessarily see it, but you may feel it as pain or swelling in the oral cavity. Other times you may have no symptoms, but your dentist has identified a problem and has referred you to an endodontist for further evaluation. Root canal treatment involves the removal of the inflamed or infected dental pulp, and the placement of materials inside the root to restore it.