When bacteria enter the inner part of a tooth—often through cracks, leaking old fillings, or new cavities—they can infect the tooth’s nerve and blood supply system, known as the dental pulp. Over time, this infection can cause intense pain, swelling, and sometimes even a small bump or pimple-like lesion on the gums called a dental abscess.
If you experience these symptoms, root canal therapy may be recommended to save your tooth and eliminate the infection. Alternatively, extraction may be necessary if the tooth cannot be saved.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, involves carefully removing the infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth. The procedure typically involves:
- Drilling a small access hole through the top of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber
- Using specialized instruments to clean and shape the root canals, removing bacteria, infected tissue, and debris
- Flushing the canals with antimicrobial solutions to thoroughly disinfect the area
- Filling the cleaned canals with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, to seal the tooth and prevent further infection
- Restoring the tooth with a crown or filling to protect the now more fragile tooth and restore full function
Why Is a Crown Recommended After Root Canal Treatment?
After root canal therapy, the tooth can become more brittle and prone to fracture because the blood supply has been removed. To protect the tooth and help it last for many years, Dr. Ben usually recommends placing a dental crown. The crown acts as a strong, protective cap, restoring the tooth’s appearance, function, and strength.
When Is Extraction Recommended Instead?
While root canal therapy aims to save your natural tooth, sometimes extraction is the best or only option. This may be due to:
- Extensive tooth fracture or structural damage
- Poor prognosis due to infection severity or bone loss
- Financial considerations or personal preference
- Failure of previous root canal treatment
If extraction is necessary, don’t worry—there are several options to replace missing teeth and restore your smile, including:
- Dental implants and implant crowns
- Traditional dental bridges
- Removable partial dentures
Dr. Ben and the Elemental Dental team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your needs, goals, and budget.
Why Early Detection Matters
Regular dental visits are essential to catch problems early—before they become painful or require more extensive treatment. Timely diagnosis of cavities or cracks can prevent infections and reduce the need for root canals or extractions.