Root canal treatment involves removing infected tissue from the tooth and sealing the tooth to prevent future re-contamination. The procedure can be completed usually in 1 to 2 appointments depending on the severity of inflammation and infection in the tooth. Root canals are necessary when decay or a crack has progressed into the pulp of the tooth. The pulp is the part of the tooth where nerves and blood vessels are located. Once bacteria penetrates this area, it is known as pulpitis. This inflammation can cause pain and eventually if the infection progresses, you can develop an abscess. This is visualized as a “bump” on the gums. Root canal therapy is important as pain and infection can worsen if not treated.
