On 10/24/2012 3:27 PM, Gary wrote:


> I've always wondered (and never googled)....what is the case for/problem
> that requires a root canal. I have a 3 crowns and many filling but never a
> root canal. I know the process but I'm just wondering what situation
> requires one?

Decay that goes deep enough to involve the inner part of the tooth
(pulp) that runs from the root to the center of the tooth. The nerve
runs through this pulp and when it gets decayed, many times it gets
infected. Mild decay can be drilled and filled, deep decay and you have
to remove the pulp and nerve to avoid intense pain.

Mostly, people with teeth that decay easily get this. Luckily for us,
we live within driving distance of Mexico where dental care is good and
very inexpensive (root canal, post and porcelain crowns are less than
$450 per tooth total). We usually make 2 trips a year.

George L