Endodontic (root canal) treatment treats the inside of the tooth. Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, faulty crowns, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, trauma to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

During root canal treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterward, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth.

There has been controversy with root canals being a long-term source of microbial infection that can affect overall health. As a dentist with a biological approach, we used updated and modern techniques (ozone and laser treatments) with root canals to effectively minimize microbial infection. In some cases, it is better to remove the tooth instead of performing a root canal. 

Is root canal treatment painful?

Today, getting root canal treatment is often no more uncomfortable than having a filling. In fact, root canal treatment doesn’t cause pain but actually relieves it. Advances have made a root canal therapy treatment a virtually pain-free experience, many times accomplished in a single visit.

Here at Health and Beauty Dentistry, we understand a great deal about pain management. With modern sedation techniques, the vast majority of patients report that they are comfortable during our dental procedures.