Endodontics is the treatment of diseases of the tooth's pulp. The pulp is located at the center of the tooth and in canals (root canals) inside the root of tooth. Pulp is comprised of connective tissue, nerves and blood vessels. Initially, pulp nourishes the tooth when it first emerges through the gum. Once a tooth matures, the pulp can be removed without destroying the tooth because each tooth also is nourished by a blood supply in the gums.
What is the purpose of root canal treatment?
The purpose of root canal treatment is to save the tooth by removing infected and damaged pulp, treating infection and filling the resulting empty root canals. Root canal treatment is a conservative way to treat pulp disease, thus preserving the tooth in its most natural state.
When
does root canal treatment become necessary?
Root canal treatment for pulp infection
An untreated cavity causes a chain of events, resulting in pulp infection. Decay erodes the enamel and dentin of the tooth until it reaches a root canal. Consequently, bacteria infects the pulp and inflammation caused by the infection reduces the blood supply to the tooth. The reduced blood supply prevents the pulp from healing.
Root canal treatment for irreparable damage to tooth pulp
The trauma of a fractured tooth can damage tooth pulp as well as multiple restorations, such as several fillings placed in the same tooth over a period of time. Sometimes common dental procedures, such as preparing a tooth for a crown, can damage the pulp, resulting in the need for root canal treatment.
After Root Canal Treatment
Once the dentist can confirm that the tooth is healed and infection has been
completely eliminated, a permanent dental crown is placed on the tooth. At
Dental Health Center of Holmdel, ceramic dental crowns are fabricated and
custom fitted for comfort in one visit using CEREC technology.