Root Canals

Root Canals and Endodontics

In the past, large cavities that invaded the nerve of a tooth and caused symptoms, such as temperature sensitivity, biting pressure, etc., would mean losing that tooth. Luckily, Dr. Wollschlager can perform root canals on effected teeth, allowing patients to save their natural teeth. 

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a proceure done in 1, sometimes 2 appointments. A root canal is necessary when the nerve of a tooth is invaded by large decay, or exposed with a broken tooth. Even trauma to a tooth can cause damage to the nerve requiring root canal treatment to be necessary. If left untreated, a necrotic nerve can cause extreme discomfort.

During a root canal, Dr. Wollschlager will remove the nerve using advanced rotary Niti files, making the procedure more comfortable and quicker. Once the nerve is removed, you are left with an empty space that runs through the middle of the tooth down the root, or roots. That space is sealed with with a restorative material. 

Once a root canal is completed, the tooth is no longer alive. It functions like a regular tooth, but without the stimuli from temperature. Within the nerve are blood vessels, which supply blood flow and nutrients to the tooth. Most of the time, a crown is required when a root canal is done, due to how brittle teeth become after root canal treatment. 

Once a root canal is completed, regular dentist visits are very important to ensure that the root canal treated tooth stays healthy and lasts a very long time.