ROOT CANAL THERAPY
Endodontist in Louisville, KY
A root canal is a space in the root of the tooth. The root canal contains the pulp of the tooth, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth containing blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. Root canal therapy is the treatment to save a tooth when the pulp is infected or injured. The pulp can become infected or injured because of a deep cavity, fracture, or cracked tooth that extends close into the pulp chamber. If the tooth is left untreated, an infection can occur and an abscess can form. Pain is often associated with pulp damage. When this type of damage occurs, it can result in loosing the entire tooth.
Root Canal Therapy consists of the following steps:
- First, tooth decay is removed and the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned to prepare for the treatment. During this time, medication is also administered into the tooth to eliminate bacteria and infection.
- Next, the root canals are then filled with an elastic material.
- Last, the tooth structure is restored typically by placing a crown over the tooth.
Dr. Scott A. Norton can provide treatment and diagnose the need for root canal therapy in his Louisville office. Call us today to learn more about how we can treat your dental needs.