Root Canals

Your Comprehensive Guide to Root Canals at Copperstone Dental

Root canals are a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage in the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain and other symptoms. 

During a root canal procedure, the dentist or endodontist (a specialist in treating the inside of teeth) removes the infected or damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and then seals it to prevent further infection. This process typically involves drilling a small hole in the tooth to access the pulp, removing the damaged tissue, and then filling the space with a biocompatible material. In some cases, a crown may be placed on the tooth to provide additional support and protection. 

Root canals are often necessary when a cavity or injury has reached the innermost part of the tooth, causing infection or inflammation. Without treatment, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and lead to more serious dental problems. While root canals have a reputation for being painful, advances in dental techniques and anesthesia have made the procedure much more comfortable for patients. After a successful root canal, the tooth can function normally and can last a lifetime with proper care.