A tooth is comprised of three layers:

• Enamel – hard outside layer
• Dentin – hard sensitive layer
• Pulp Tissue – where the nerve of the tooth resides.

A root canal refers to the removal of the nerve and pulp tissue, which is the innermost layer of the tooth. The roots of the tooth are not removed which is common misconception when people think of a root canal.

Decay which causes the tooth to become infected, and trauma which causes the nerve to dye, are the two primary reasons why the nerve and pulp tissue may need to be removed says Dr. Azimi. Until a root canal is performed, the tooth will not heal!

Once Dr. Azimi has performed the root canal procedure and the infection is removed, the inside of the tooth is sterilized and sealed. A filling is placed in the tooth until a dental crown is placed over the tooth.