Root canal therapy is an option to save teeth when the nerve of a tooth is affected by infection, inflammation, or trauma. In order to save the tooth, nerves, bacteria and any decay are removed and the space is filled with medicated, dental materials.

Symptoms That Occur Which May Indicate Root Canal Therapy Is Needed

• Sensitivity to hot/cold that persists for a period of time
• Sensitivity to chewing or biting
• An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
• Swelling and/or tenderness

When To Talk To Your Dentist

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is necessary to talk to your dentist right away. An abscess will not go away on its own. It will continue to grow and potentially threaten your health. If the abscess bursts, you will have a foul taste in your mouth. An abscessed tooth will need either root canal therapy or extraction, depending on the tooth’s restorability.

If you need root canal therapy, novacaine or anesthesia will be used to numb your tooth. After the root canal therapy procedure is performed, the tooth may need a crown to protect the now brittle tooth and prevent it from fracturing and breaking.