To effectively perform root canal, a dentist must understand the anatomy of a tooth. Our tooth is constructed with multple layers: the outer most layer is enamel; the middle layer is dentin; and the innermost layer is the pulp chamber. The enamel and dentin are harden mineralized tooth structure.
Pulp is made of nerve and blood vessels. Generally, when a person experiences pain, it is because the tooth is under external stimulation. These stimulation can be due to bacterial infection or damage to tooth structure which compromises the protection of the tooth. The tooth in compromised condition is more easily stimulated. Tooth cavity,crack and damage to tooth structure can decrease the self-defense ability of the tooth.
Under mild stimulation, the tooth would generally recover itself upon the removal of stimulus. For example, if the tooth filling is to repair the cavity, the tooth will no longer experience pain.
However, under some conditions, the tooth may never recover. Or if the tooth has become dead, the tooth might not cause any pain. A necrotic tissue within the pulp of the tooth may cause more severe infection. Often the antibiotics would not be able to penetrate to the inner portion of tooth and antibiotics may not be effective against the dental infection. Thus, the necrotic tissue in the pulp must be removed by performing the root canal therapy by the dentist.
Root canal therapy is to remove the necrotic tissue in the tooth. The tissue within the pulp chamber and the nerve canals within the tooth is thoroughly cleaned out. The empty canal space will then be filled with medication so to prevent bacteria from re-entering into the pulp chamber to cause infection.
There is a misconception that after the root canal therapy, the tooth would become dead and become useless. Well, this is incorrect. The treated tooth can still be preserved and function just like any other teeth.
Generally, it is recommended that a crown is put on the tooth after the root canal therapy.
Written by Daniel Tee, DDS, MS
Practicing Dentist Serving the city of Tempe, Chandler, Phoenix, Gilbert, and Mesa in Arizona.
