What Happens in Root Canal Therapy?
First, the dentist removes the diseased nerve tissue from inside the pulp chamber and the root canal(s) of the tooth (front teeth have a single root; other teeth are multi-rooted). The dentist goes through the crown of the tooth to reach the nerve tissues, which are removed. Then the dentist begins re-shaping and cleaning the pulp chamber and canal(s), as shown in this illustration. When the canal(s) and the pulp chamber are cleaned and shaped, the dentist fills and seals the tooth to prevent bacteria from re-entering. If the tooth crown is badly decayed, the dentist may replace it entirely and anchor the new crown to one or two of the treated roots with a post. Then, depending on how much of the original tooth remains, the dentist may restore the tooth either with a filling (silver or tooth colored) or a crown made from porcelain or gold. Root-end Surgery (Apicoectomy) Root-end Surgery, or Apicoectomy, is the most common endodontic surgery. It is recommended when inflammation or infec
