The most common endodontic procedure performed is a root canal. If you are experiencing tooth pain, tender or swollen gums, a tooth that is very sensitive to hot and cold or a tooth that has become discoloured, you may need a root canal. The dentist will examine your tooth and analyze your x-ray to determine if there is irreversible infection of the nerve tissue and pulp. A root canal procedure will save the tooth, remove the infection and return surrounding tissues to a healthy condition.

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There are a number of reasons that a tooth may become inflamed or irritated; an injury to the tooth, repeated dental work, deep fillings, or deep decay. Even if there are no indications that a tooth is damaged, any abscess or pain should be assessed by the dentist.

 

When damage has progressed to the point that nerves inside the tooth die and the tooth can no longer receive the organic nutrients and moisture it requires, root canal therapy is often the only way to preserve the tooth and protect the jawbone.