Why is it necessary?

It is usually necessary because of severe pain. There may also be swelling. The classic toothache is usually due to damaged or infected pulp tissue (you call it "the nerve").

Root canal therapy removes this damaged or infected tissue, thereby eliminating the pain.

The dental pulp, or "nerve," can be damaged due to the following reasons:

• deep decay
• severe tooth fracture
• repeated fillings over many years
• associated severe gum disease
• trauma

How is it done?

Local anaesthetic is administered, and a small hole is made in the top or back of the tooth. A series of thin, flexible "files" are introduced into the roots to remove all remaining tissue and infection. Irrigating liquids are used to sterilize the inside of the tooth. Occasionally antibiotics are used to control infection. The cleaned canals are then filled with an inert, pink, rubbery-like material.

The success rate of root canal treatment, when properly performed, is in the range of 95%.

So why do we sometimes hear stories about the loss of these teeth after treatment?

The greatest cause of tooth loss after root canal therapy is severe tooth fracture due to inadequate reinforcement of the tooth. Proper reconstruction with a core filling and crown will virtually eliminate the potential for fracture.