A root canal is usually required when the pulp tissue (commonly called the nerve) inside the tooth is damaged and cannot recover. As the nerve deteriorates you may begin to experience several symptoms of the dying nerve. The area may be painful when pressed on and you may notice some swelling. The tooth can become sensitive to temperatures, both hot and cold. One common indication that a nerve has died is when a single tooth becomes discoloured. In some cases, the nerve may die despite a lack of symptoms.

There are several common causes of nerve damage. Often it is because a deep cavity has spread to the nerve due to a tooth fracture or a large, deep filling. A blow to a tooth can also cause nerve damage. In some instances the exact cause is unknown and a root canal may still be necessary.

As the nerve dies, it loses its ability to fight off bacteria and will eventually become infected and perhaps even abscess. An abscess can be extremely painful and should be treated immediately. Once the nerve has deteriorated to this stage, only root canal therapy will alleviate the problem and save the tooth. Fortunately, modern dental anesthetics and techniques allow us to perform root canal procedures virtually painlessly.

How is a root canal done?
Depending on the treatment you require, it may be done in one, two or three appointments. All decay is removed and a small opening is made through the biting surface of the tooth to allow access to the nerve. Special instruments are used to remove all of the infected material and remaining nerve tissue. The inside of the tooth is then rinsed, dried and filled to seal it and prevent re-growth of bacteria into the nerve chamber. Once the root canal is completed, the access opening is filled. There should be very little discomfort once it heals.

A tooth which has undergone root canal therapy may become brittle due to the loss of natural moisture. In addition, if extensive decay was present or a tooth fracture had occurred, a crown should be placed to prevent further breakdown. Having a root canal done to save a tooth is less expensive than having the tooth extracted and replaced with a false one. Modern root canal therapy is very effective and predictable. These procedures are over 90% successful and can be used to save a tooth which would otherwise need to be extracted.