Root canal therapy is a procedure designed to save a natural tooth from requiring extraction, particularly when the tooth’s nerve is affected by infection, injury or decay. Common reasons that a compromised tooth might require root canal therapy include cracks, deep cavities or injuries. To salvage the tooth, the living tissue, nerves, bacteria and any infection or decay are removed. The resulting space is then filled with a specialized medicated dental material, restoring the tooth’s full function. If an injured or compromised tooth is left untreated, this can lead to severe pain, a dental abscess or potential tooth loss. As such, early intervention is so important.
Root canal therapy is often the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would require extraction. Extracting a problematic tooth may result in higher future costs and also poses potential trauma to adjacent teeth. Root canal therapy is a reliable and effective treatment option known for its high success rate and long-lasting results. It is important to keep in mind however, that some infections in teeth may not respond to root canal therapy and the tooth may require extraction.