Nothing looks, feels or functions like your natural teeth and, with the right care, your teeth can last a lifetime. Problems like decay, injury, or disease can threaten your teeth and ruin your smile. Thanks to advances in treatment and technology, many teeth can be saved. One way a tooth can be saved is by root canal therapy, or endodontic treatment.

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How Does a Root Canal Work?

Step 1

First, your dentist will numb the tooth to ensure the entire procedure is pain-free.

Step 2

Next, an opening is made through the crown of the tooth and into the pulp chamber. Fluid is put into the canals to kill any bacteria and help rinse out debris. Next, the pulp is removed. Then, the dentist carefully cleans and shapes the canals before filling and sealing the root canals.

Step 3

In most cases, a temporary filling is placed to close the opening. A second visit is often required to restore your tooth with a permanent filling or crown.