Root Canal

When a tooth is severely damaged or infected, if the root is still intact, it may be possible to save the root by undergoing a root canal.  Retaining the root of a tooth in the jawbone is the healthiest option for maintaining jawbone integrity.  Chewing stimulates the roots of the teeth which, in turn, prevents the loss of bone density.  When a tooth is lost and not restored, bone loss will occur in the jaw around the place where the root was -- up to 25% in the first year and continuing after that.  Loss of bone volume allows the cheek muscles to droop, causing a shrunken-in look of the face.  

Root canals are a procedure to restore a damaged tooth while saving the root within the jaw.  The root of the tooth served as a blood supply to the developing adult teeth.  After the adult teeth are in, the inside of the root is no longer needed, allowing for root canals to be performed.  

A tiny hole is made in the damaged tooth to allow the inside of the root to be scooped out.  After cleaning and drying the inside of the root, a rubbery substance (called gutta percha) is placed in the root, and a filling is placed to fill the entry hole.  The top of the tooth is prepared for a crown to be placed to restore the tooth to its original size.  

Dr. Jay Parmer is available to provide tooth restoration and root canals when needed.