Root Canal Therapy

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Beneath the hard outer enamel of a tooth is a layer of dentin which surrounds the soft internal pulp chamber where the nerve tissue and tiny blood vessels are located. Infection or decay can cause inflammation in the pulp tissue, which, if left untreated, may lead to nerve death and tooth loss.

Root canal therapy (also known as endodontic treatment), is used to treat an infection and/or damage in the pulp of a tooth and save the affected tooth from extraction.

• Severe decay
• A crack or chip in the tooth
• An injury to the tooth
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth

• Discoloration of the tooth
• Severe toothache upon applying pressure or chewing
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Tenderness and swelling in the nearby gums
• An abscess on the gums

The procedure of a root canal begins with the administration of a local anesthetic to prevent the feeling of pain during the procedure. The infected tooth is isolated from the rest of the teeth with a dental dam. Using a dental drill, a hole is made in the tooth to access the pulp chamber.

The infected portion of the pulp is then removed and the area is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Then a dental material called gutta percha is filled inside the tooth. The outer hole  created in the tooth is filled with dental composite and the tooth is built up. The tooth will then, in most cases, be prepared for a crown to seal the root canal to prevent future infection.

To learn more about root canal therapy, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Wohl. During your exam, Dr. Wohl will be able to determine whether a root canal is the appropriate treatment for you and can answer any questions you may have related to treatment options.

Call our practice at (865) 483-2356 to schedule your appointment.