### What is a Root Canal? A root canal is a dental procedure used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. During the procedure, the nerve and pulp inside the tooth are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. ### Why is it Needed? The nerve and pulp can become irritated, inflamed, and infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, large fillings, or trauma to the face. Without treatment, the surrounding tissue can become infected, leading to an abscess. ### The Procedure 1. **Numbing**: The dentist will numb the area around the tooth. 2. **Cleaning**: The nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned. 3. **Sealing**: The tooth is then sealed to prevent further infection. ### Aftercare - Your mouth will be numb for a few hours after the procedure. - You may experience some sensitivity for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. - Avoid chewing with the treated tooth until the procedure is fully completed with a permanent filling or crown. - Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. ### Success Rate Root canal treatments have a high success rate of over 95%. Many teeth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime. ### Costs The cost varies depending on the severity of the problem and the tooth affected. It can range from $500 to $1,500, and dental insurance often covers part of the cost. ### Alternatives The only alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction, which can be more expensive and require more treatment time. Saving your natural teeth is the best option for maintaining proper nutrition and oral health.