Definition: The diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the dental pulp (nerve) and the tissues at the root apex.
What Is a Root Canal?
The most common causes of a pulp problem are; trauma to the teeth or jaw, severe periodontal (gum) disease, extensive or large restorative work, and large/deep areas of tooth decay. These events can often lead to the death of the pulp tissue, which might not be noticed immediately in the form of pain. A pulp can die immediately from these events; or it could take weeks; or it could even take years to die.
Root Canal Therapy Is Not Painful
There are many misconceptions root canal therapy. Many people believe that root canal therapy is quite painful. Actually it is the teeth that need root canal therapy that cause the pain or heightened sensitivity. Root canal therapy is virtually pain-free. There have been many fantastic advances in root canal therapy that have made it easier and more comfortable. Most root canal treatments can be completed in one visit.
And most importantly, a successful root canal treatment allows us to save teeth that would otherwise have to be extracted.