Root canal treatment removes infected, injured or dead tissue from your tooth. This allows you to keep a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed and therefore prevents drifting of teeth, jaw problems, and replacement with an artificial tooth.

The space between the hard layers of each tooth contains nerves and blood vessels that help your tooth grow and develop. This is known as the root canal system. When bacteria enters your tooth through deep decay (cavity), a crack or a defective restoration (filling) it can become abscessed (infection). This can lead to pain and swelling. If left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to serious health problems.

Dr. Hynes can complete most root canal treatments in our office but may refer you to see an endodontist if it is difficult. Every tooth is unique and the root canal system can be very complicated in some cases. Root canal treatment usually takes 1-2 visits.

Once root canal treatment is complete, your tooth will need to be restored.  The choice of restoration will depend on the amount of remaining tooth structure. The options are a filling, a crown or a post and crown. Dr. Hynes will discuss with you the option that is best for your tooth. Root canal treatment does not protect your tooth from future damage, such as decay and fracture, so it is very important to restore it with the best option.

Root canal treatment has a very high success rate. In some rare cases, however, a second root canal treatment is needed. This is known as retreatment. If retreatment still does not work or if it is not possible, surgery or extraction (removal) may be required.