Teeth have nerves just like other parts of the body. When bacteria cause cavities in teeth they can irritate the nerve of the tooth. This happens when cavities get deep inside the tooth. When cavities are caught early, we can use fillings to restore teeth. By the time cavities get really painful, those affected teeth may require root canals.
During a root canal, we numb the affected teeth and remove the nerve and blood supply of the tooth. The nerve space is cleaned and irrigated. Teeth that have had root canals are generally weaker after treatment. Back teeth that have had root canals generally require crowns to protect them. Let our dental office know if you have any questions about root canals. This specific treatment is important, does not have to be painful (in fact it relieves pain) and can save a tooth from being pulled.
-Dr. Chris Roebken
