About Your Tooth

Tooth Basics

Illustration showing parts of your tooth, by Raleigh NC Endodontist Dr. Horalek
Illustration by Dr. Horalek

Your tooth consists of two main parts: the crown, which is that part of the tooth above the gum and visible in your mouth; and the root or roots, which is that part of the tooth that lies beneath the gum and is surrounded by bone.

Inside each root is a channel that runs the length of the tooth. This channel is the root canal and contains the pulp (nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissue), which is often referred to as the “nerve” of the tooth. The pulp may be irreversibly damaged by bacteria associated with decay,  deep restorations, fractures, trauma, or periodontal disease.

In order to preserve a tooth in which this has occurred, it is necessary to remove the diseased pulp tissue. This procedure is known as endodontic therapy. Because endodontic therapy is concerned with removing only the pulp from the root canal, the supporting tissues remain intact and the root will continue to function normally. It is advisable to remove the injured pulp because it may become infected or act as an irritant to the tissues surrounding the tooth.

For more information about your tooth, possible endodontic treatment, or to schedule a consult with Dr. Horalek, please use our Contact Us form or call our endodontic office in Raleigh, NC at Raleigh Office Phone Number North Raleigh Endodontics Office Phone Number 919-256-3996.

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Contact North Raleigh Endodontics

The first step towards a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule an appointment. Please contact our office by phone or complete the appointment request form below.

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