Root canal therapy or endodontic therapy is basically a procedure which involves removal of the infected pulp, cleaning, and shaping of the canal, and filling or sealing it with a bio-inert material like gutta-percha. Endodontic treatment treats the inside of the tooth and is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The causes might include deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, faulty crowns, or chip in the tooth. In addition, trauma to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. Leaving the pulp inflammation or infection untreated can hence cause pain or lead to an abscess.
Root canal treatment is incomplete without a crown. It’s essential as it prevents the tooth from fracture and helps in maintaining the tooth’s original strength.
Millions of teeth are treated and saved each year with endodontic treatment. Saving the natural tooth with root canal treatment has many advantages like
- Efficient chewing
- Natural appearance
- Prevents other teeth from getting an infection, excessive wear or strain.
With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last as long as other natural teeth and often for a lifetime.