When a tooth becomes badly decayed the nerve, or pulp, may become infected as well. The dentist will evaluate the x-ray and along with vitality tests, will determine if the nerve is involved. Once this has been diagnosed he will complete the root canal.
Do you have a toothache that just won’t go away? Pain keeping you up at night? If so, you could have a dental infection in the pulp (center) of the tooth. This can result from a deep cavity that has reached the pulp, a tooth fracture, trauma or previous large filling.
The pulp contains sensitive nerve tissue and can cause lots of pain - this will not go away on its own and requires a root canal. Most patients say the treatment feels like getting a small filling.
The dentist will begin by numbing the area of the tooth. Once the area is numb the dentist will create a small opening in the crown of the tooth and remove the infected nerve tissue completely, cleaning each canal. Once completely cleaned and shaped the canals are sealed with rubber-like material and a temporary filling will be placed until a complete restoration is scheduled. A crown will then be placed to maintain normal function of the tooth.