Root canal therapy is performed to save a tooth that is severely damaged or infected, rather than removing it. The procedure is necessary when the dental pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels—becomes inflamed or infected due to:
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Deep tooth decay that reaches the pulp
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Cracks or fractures in the tooth
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Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
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Trauma or injury to the tooth
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Infection or abscess at the root of the tooth
Without treatment, the infection can spread to surrounding teeth or bone, cause severe pain, and eventually lead to tooth loss. Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it, allowing you to keep your natural tooth while restoring function and relieving pain.