Dr. Tiffany Shields is your Jacksonville FL dentist to help you maintain good oral health. Occasionally, even with effective brushing and flossing, a root canal may be required. A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected.

Mouth Healthy explains that, “root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp (soft tissue inside your teeth containing blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue) becomes inflamed or diseased. During root canal treatment, our dentists remove the diseased pulp. The pulp chamber and root canal(s) of the tooth are then cleaned and sealed. If the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result, and your tooth may have to be removed.”

Causes of an infected pulp could include:

• A deep cavity
• Repeated dental procedures
• A cracked or broken tooth
• Injury to the tooth (even if there’s not a visible crack or chip)

A root canal is a relatively simple procedure and pain can be managed effectively. Root canals can save your tooth from having to be replaced and can save your smile. If the thought of a root canal makes you uneasy, give us a call today and Dr. Tiffany Shields will set your mind at ease!