Across America, millions of teeth are saved by root canal procedures completed under dental or endodontic care. The root canal procedure has been exaggerated to be extremely painful; however, this pain is often mistaken for the pain prior to the treatment. The soft tissue known as the pulp is surrounded by the white enamel and the softer layer called dentin. The pulp, which is vital during development, contains nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. Issues regarding the root canal often point to either an infection in the pulp or inflammation of the pulp which have various causes such as: deep decay, faulty crowns, or even repeated dental procedures on that tooth. If left untreated, the tooth undergoing infection or inflammation can lead to abscess under the tooth causing pain.

            The procedure that dentists use in order to treat an infected or inflamed pulp is simpler and less painful than most people believe. The dentist will first take an x-ray and apply local anesthesia to the tooth to numb the area. An access hole will be then drilled into the tooth where root canal files will be inserted to remove the pulp and decayed nerve from inside of the tooth. After full cleaning, a temporary is placed and on the next appointment the root canal will be sealed by inserting gutta percha (a rubber) into the root canal. Finally, the tooth needs full restoration so the dentist would typically apply a post and crown or would do further work depending on the nature of the patient.

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