What is a Root Canal?

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       A root canal is a dental procedure involving the removal of the pulp of the tooth. The pulp is made up of nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels that help the tooth grow. A root canal is needed when the pulp is injured, becomes inflamed, or infected. Removing injured or infected pulp is the best way to preserve the structure of the tooth.

Common causes of damage to the pulp:

• Deep decay due to an untreated cavity

• Multiple dental procedures on the same tooth

• A chip or crack in the tooth

• An injury to the tooth

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Risks of a Root Canal

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A root canal is performed in an effort to save your tooth. Sometimes, however, the damage is too deep, or the enamel is too frail to withstand the procedure. These factors can lead to loss of the tooth.
Another risk is developing an abscess at the root of the tooth if the antibiotics are not effective.