A root canal is the space inside the root of a tooth. It is the space within a tooth that consists of the pulp chamber, the main canal(s), and more branches that may connect the root canals to each other or to the surface of the root. There may be one more main canals in each root. Teeth vary in their internal anatomy. This space is filled with three main parts, a nerve, a vein and an artery all known as the dental pulp. Once fully formed, a tooth only knows one sensation, pain. This is the body’s natural protective mechanism telling us something is wrong. This is what’s known as a “Root Canal” or “Endodontic Therapy.
The most common causes for the need of a root canal are broken teeth, or decay to the pulp, or root. A root canal is a procedure commonly done to relieve the pain and save the tooth. If needed, the pulp of the tooth is removed, and then the canals are sealed. This involves going into the tooth and removing the three main parts, cleaning it well, and placing the sealer. This is generally done in one appointment, and is followed up by restoring the tooth to its normal function.