When you have a tooth with a big cavity, toothache symptoms, or an infection, a root canal may be necessary to restore the tooth and relieve the symptoms. Root canals have a high success rate and will allow you to keep your natural tooth, with proper care, for the long term.

Teeth have nerves that run through “canals” in the middle of the roots. During a root canal procedure, after thorough numbing, the nerve tissue is cleaned out of the tooth and the tooth is flushed with antibacterial medicaments to resolve symptoms and clear any infection process. The canals are shaped for a filling, and a filling material is used to seal the canals to prevent re-infection. The chewing portion of the tooth is then restored, either with a filling or more often a crown. Now you’re able to function symptom free on your own natural tooth!

Having a toothache or think you need a root canal? Call 434-634-4164 or click here to set up an appointment with Dr. Hawley.

Some common myths about root canals debunked here.