Endodontic therapy (root canal) may be indicated in cases where the nerve in the tooth has been damaged (trauma), infected with bacteria (deep decay), or has abscessed. The procedure itself is relatively straightforward and takes approximately an hour. Decay will be removed as well as the remnants of the pulpal (nerve) tissues. This is followed by cleaning of the canal area within the tooth. That space is then filled and sealed.
Oftentimes, a crown will be recommended following this procedure, but in some cases all that might be required is a small filling. In situations where we see in the x-ray that the canal space is very narrow, obstructed (calcified), or curved, you may be referred to a specialist – an endodontist. They are specially trained dentists who use surgical microscopes and specialized instruments to treat those more challenging cases.
