Root canal therapy is considered to be one of the most feared dental procedures - but it doesn't have to be. Begin your journey by learning about why root canal therapy is preformed, then explore exactly how the procedure is preformed from start to finish.
What is a Root Canal?
The space inside the tooth from the center, known as the pulp chamber, that travels down the length of the root to the tip (or apex) is called a "canal," or more specifically, a root canal. Human teeth may have one to four root canals, depending on the anatomy of the tooth. Molars, may have 2 to 4 canals, premolars may have 1 to 2 canals, cuspids may have 1 to 2 canals, and finally incisors generally have 1 canal. Extra canals may branch out from the main canal, called "accessory canals." The number of canals and the anatomy can vary among teeth.
Common Reasons for Root Canals
The tiny canals contain the pulp of the tooth also commonly referred to as the nerve, which originates from the pulp chamber. Any trauma or infection of the nerve will result in the need for root canal therapy. Common reasons for root canal therapy include:
- Tooth decay invades the tooth, penetrating through the enamel and then the dentin in to the pulp.
- A tooth has become abscessed -- also known as infected -- from decay.
- Trauma, such as a chipped or broken tooth, occurs and results in the exposure of the nerve.
- A tooth is slowly dying, due to aging or past trauma that did not result in the need for treatment at the time of injury.
200 East Bridge St., Suite 100
Wausau, WI 54403
(715) 843-9800 2812 East Main St.
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Merrill, WI 54452
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Schofield, WI 54476
(715)-355-5570
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Edgar, WI 54426
(715)-352-3800
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Plover, WI 54467
(715)-544-6100
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