What Is a Root Canal?

Watch this video by Dr. Bruce Fine, an experienced New Jersey implant dentist, as he explains when endodontic treatment is necessary to save your natural teeth.

If you find yourself in a situation where a root canal is necessary, it’s essential to understand what this procedure involves. Our teeth consist of three primary layers. The outermost layer is known as enamel, followed by dentin, and finally, at the core of our teeth, there is a canal housing blood vessels and nerves. When a cavity forms and only affects the enamel, diligent oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing can prevent it from progressing further and potentially requiring a filling. However, if the bacterial infection, known as a cavity, reaches the dentin layer, a filling becomes necessary. If the cavity extends all the way to the center of the tooth, it significantly compromises the tooth’s integrity, making it crucial to save it from further damage.

Unfortunately, our body’s immune system cannot naturally resolve this problem. A root canal procedure entails cleaning out the central canal of the tooth, akin to the doughnut hole within the tooth structure. This process involves thorough sterilization to eliminate any existing infection, followed by filling the canal. In most cases, a root canal is accompanied by the need for a posting core. Additionally, almost 95% or more of the time, a crown is required to strengthen and protect the treated tooth. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive care to address your dental concerns and ensure a future with minimal, if any, dental issues. We are committed to meeting your needs and offering solutions that promote your oral health.