Root Canal Therapy

Toothaches provide a vivid reminder that teeth aren’t inert, but actually intricately formed parts with layers of hard substances overlaying a delicate core. Coursing through the tooth’s center, this vital bundle of nerves and blood vessels provides nutrients and sensation to each tooth. As long as the tooth stays healthy, we are rarely aware of the systems at work.

But pain rapidly changes our awareness in any part of the body. Tooth pain can be especially alarming, and it’s meant to warn us that something’s not right. Pain tells us that the bundle of nerves and vessels inside the tooth is irritated, damaged, or under attack.

A deep cavity can give bacteria access to the inner nerve bundle. A crack extending into the same region can create stress that will need additional care to relieve. In some cases, a significant infection may develop in the jaw without any symptoms at all. If Dr. Pollard determines that the nerve won’t recover or infection is present, then he may recommend root canal treatment.

Modern anesthetics provide powerful numbing for gentle removal of the inflamed nerve inside the tooth. The nerve canal undergoes disinfection and careful shaping, and a sealer fills the internal space. A filling or crown over the tooth helps return the tooth to its original condition.

Internet articles continue to circulate, claiming adverse health effects from root canals, despite years of research proving otherwise. Many of these claims rest on unsubstantiated theories put forward decades ago without any scientific basis. They’ve been thoroughly debunked by the most credible sources, supported by unbiased research projects. In fact, one popular Facebook article sounding a false alarm shakily cites a 100-year-old study tossed aside long ago.

The American Association of Endodontists stays abreast of all the current and past research and can clearly support the safety of this vital service. In fact, new techniques and materials make root canal treatment more successful than ever.