Root canal: performed to save a tooth from requiring extraction when it has become inflamed or infected at the root. The inside of the tooth is accessed through a small hole that is drilled into the top (crown) of the tooth. The infected pulp and any decay present are removed, then the canal is cleaned and reshaped before it is filled with a biocompatible material.

Root canal retreatment: if, after a root canal has been performed, the affected tooth fails to heal properly, a retreatment will be needed. This procedure will alleviate any pain and promote healing at the same time. It is unlikely to need this treatment, but there are several reasons why it might be: the root canal of a patient may have been more complex than what was initially detected; there may be salivary contaminations in the inside of the tooth or new decay present in the tooth; or the crown placed on top of the tooth may have become loose or broken, exposing the tooth to new infection. Another root canal will be performed to remove any new traces of infection and clean out all the canals.

Endodontic surgery: these procedures involve cutting into and opening the gum tissue near the affected tooth in order to view the underlying bone and remove the infected tissue. A small section of the tooth root can be removed, if needed. This treatment is only recommended if other methods are insufficient for treating an affected tooth. 

If you have a tooth that has been affected by decay, call us today or fill out the new patient form below.