Root canal treatment


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Root canal treatment


Root canal treatment (also called a root canal) is a dental procedure done to remove the infected core (pulp) of a tooth, which helps relieve toothache, stop infection, and promote healing.

When the pulp is healthy, it feeds the tooth and helps fight infection. When the pulp becomes damaged because of a deep cavity or fracture, infection may develop. The infection can cause pain and lead to the development of an abscess.

Credits


Author Ralph Poore
Editor Cynthia Tank
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Denele Ivins
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist
Last Updated March 23, 2007

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Last updated: March 23, 2007
Author: Ralph Poore
Reviewed By: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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