Endodontics

Bacterial invasion from caries or a crack in the tooth can lead to inflammation and eventual death of the dental pulp or "nerve." This can cause severe pain or swelling. If sufficient tooth structure remains, the dying or dead nerve can be removed. The root canal will then be cleaned, shaped and disinfected. After 3 to 4 weeks, when the tooth is symptom free the canal can be filled with a soft plastic filler and sealing cement. A final restoration can then be placed and the tooth will stay in place as a normal tooth from then on.