Root Canals
Inside each tooth is the pulp which provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth, it runs like a thread down through the root. When the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies. If you don't remove it, your tooth gets infected and you could lose it. The most common cause of pulp death is a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. Both of these problems can let germs (bacteria) enter the pulp. Germs can cause an infection inside the tooth. Left without treatment, pus builds up at the root tip, in the jawbone, forming a "pus-pocket" called an abscess. An abscess can cause damage to the bone around the teeth. When the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result.
Without treatment, your tooth may have to be removed. During a root canal, to keep you comfortable, you'll receive local anesthesia. Once the area is numb, Dr. Toth will remove the pulp and nerves located within the root. Like a filling, the area is cleaned and the root canal is filled to keep the infection from returning. Dr. Toth will then crown the tooth to further protect it.