Expat Dental - Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is the space within the root of a tooth. It is part of a naturally occurring space within a tooth that consists of the pulp chamber (within the coronal part of the tooth), the main canal(s), and more intricate anatomical branches that may connect the root canals to each other or to the surface of the root. The smaller branches are most frequently found near the root end (apex) but may be encountered anywhere along the root length. There may be one or two main canals within each root. Some teeth have more variable internal anatomy than others. This space is filled with a highly vascularized, loose connective tissue, the dental pulp.

The dental pulp is the nerve tissue which forms the dentin portion of the tooth. The formation of secondary teeth (adult teeth) is completed by 1-2 years after eruption into the mouth. Once the tooth has reached its final size and shape, the dental pulp's original function ceases for all practical purposes. It takes on a secondary role as a sensory organ.

Root Canal Images

The goal of root canal treatment is to save a tooth that might otherwise require extraction. The treatment involves removing the nerve tissue (dental pulp) located in the center of the tooth and its root or roots (called the root canal).

It involves creating an opening through the biting surface of the tooth to expose the remnants of the pulp, which then are removed. Medications may be used to sterilize the interior of the tooth to prevent further infection. Root canal treatment may relieve symptoms such as pain and discomfort.

Each empty root canal that can be located is filled. Occasionally, a post is also inserted into the canal to help restore the tooth. The opening in the tooth is closed with a temporary filling. At a later appointment, a crown may be placed. It is a separate dental procedure

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