NERVE(ROOT)CANAL
Introduction:
The nerve (root) canal is the channel in the center of your tooth that contains the dental pulp. This is the tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The nerve (root) canal runs from the crown of your tooth (the part you can see) down to the root of your tooth. A diseased or damaged nerve (root) canal can be very painful.
To save a tooth with a diseased or damaged nerve (root) canal, your dentist will clean out the infected tissue and fill the nerve (root) canal with a special material. This procedure is called root canal therapy. Root canal therapy can relieve pain and help to restore your tooth to its normal function and appearance.
Symptoms of diseased/damaged Nerve(Root)Canal:
The most common symptom of a diseased or damaged nerve (root) canal is pain. This pain can be sharp, throbbing, or constant. You may also experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or pressure on your tooth. If the nerve (root) canal is infected, you may also have swelling.
What causes a diseased or damaged Nerve (Root) Canal?
There are several things that can cause a nerve (root) canal to become diseased or damaged. The most common cause is a deep cavity. Other causes include tooth fracture, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or trauma to the tooth.
How is a Nerve (Root) Canal diagnosed?
Your dentist will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. He or she will also do a physical examination of your mouth. X-rays may also be taken. These images will help your dentist to see the inside of your tooth and to assess the extent of the damage.
How is a Nerve (Root) Canal treated?
- Root canal therapy is the only way to save a tooth with a diseased or damaged nerve (root) canal. During this procedure, your dentist will clean out the infected tissue and fill the nerve (root) canal with a special material. This material will protect the tooth from further damage and allow you to keep your tooth.
- After root canal therapy, your dentist may place a crown (cap) on your tooth to restore it to its normal shape and function. He or she may also recommend that you have a dental implant placed to replace the tooth if it is severely damaged.
Conclusion:
The nerve canal is the pathway that nerves and blood vessels take as they travel from the spinal cord to the rest of the body. In dental terms, the nerve canal is important because it contains the pulp tissue, which is a rich source of nerves and blood vessels.
Root canal therapy is a successful procedure that can relieve your pain and help you to keep your tooth. With proper care, your restored tooth can last a lifetime.