Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy (also known as endodontic therapy) is a dental procedure that saves a damaged or diseased tooth. Root canals are used as an alternative to the removal of a damaged tooth, allowing the patient to maintain their existing bite. Treatment requires the removal of a nerve inside the tooth and replacing the empty root “canal” with a solid filling material that is infection resistant.

A dark-colored generally indicates that the tooth’s nerve is infected and the flow of blood to and from the tooth has stopped. Usually this means the tooth will require a root canal for treatment, though it is possible the tooth will simply “die,” not requiring a root canal to treat the pain. In order to restore the tooth to its natural color, you might consider a crown, veneers or a procedure in which a whitening agent is placed inside the tooth after root canal treatment that whitens the tooth.

Improve the health of your teeth today with a root canal by calling one of our Chicago dentist offices or by requesting an appointment online.