If your tooth’s nerve chamber becomes infected by decay, or damaged by trauma, a root canal treatment is often the only way to save your tooth.

Inside the hard outer shell of each tooth is a specialized area called the pulp or nerve chamber. The pulp chamber contains a system of blood vessels, lymph vessels and nerves, the pulp, which enter from the bone through the root canals. This system provides nourishment for the cells within the tooth.

Deep tooth decay or other injury can cause damage to or infection of the tooth pulp. In a root canal or endodontic treatment, the dentist removes the infected pulp and replaces it with a filler that helps maintain the remaining tooth structure.  A crown is usually recommended to restore and protect the tooth from further damage.

Some indications of the need for root canal treatment may be:

• Spontaneous pain or throbbing while biting.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
• Severe decay or an injury that creates an abscess (infection) in the bone.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us at our Downsview Dental Office in North York and set up a consultation with Dr. Olvera.