How is dental pulp damaged?

The most common causes of pulp death are cracked teeth or deep cavities. Both of these problems can allow bacteria to enter into the delicate pulp of your teeth. That bacteria can then cause an infection inside of the tooth.

Why does the pulp need to be removed?

Left without treatment, pus builds up at the root tip, in the jawbone, forming a “pus-pocket” called an abscess. An abscess can cause damage to the bone around the teeth. If it isn’t removed, infected pulp can cause a variety of problems, like severe pain and swelling. In severe cases, the infection can progress to the point that the affected teeth need to be removed, eventually even doing damage to your jawbone and surrounding teeth.

What does root canal treatment involve?

Root canal treatments typically require one to three visits to complete. During treatment, your dentist or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in problems of the pulp) will remove any diseased pulp. The pulp chamber and root canal or canals of the tooth or teeth are then cleaned and sealed.