Root Canal Therapy

Understanding Root Canals

Has your dentist or endodontist recommended that you receive a root canal for a damaged or infected tooth? Often, the term “root canal” is a commonly known term but can be a scary term for dental patients. However, if you find yourself in need, rest assured that you are not alone. Millions require a root canal or other endodontic treatment every year.

Root Canal Treatment Step By Step

Why would I need a Root Canal?

Root Canal (Endodontic) treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes such as deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. Also, a blow to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulpal inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

Symptoms of Possible Infection

  • The tooth is sensitive to hot or cold
  • Tooth hurts to biting or pressure
  • There is a throbbing, severe tooth pain
  • The area is swollen
  • You have a bad taste in your mouth

 

Sometimes, there are no obvious or noticeable symptoms to let you know there is a problem! Only regular dental visits and digital x-rays (as well as the expert eye of the dentist) can reveal the underlying issue.

How Does a Root Canal Save My Tooth?

We first remove the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully clean and shapes the inside of the tooth, then fill and seal the space. Afterward,  your dentist will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth.

Will I Feel Pain During or After the Root Canal Procedure?

Endodontic procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulpal inflammation or infection. With modern techniques and anesthetics, most patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure.

For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after completion of your root canal. However, if you have severe pain or pressure lasting more more than a few days, call our office!

If you have any questions about our Endodontic Services,
please contact us using our handy contact form.

Basic Steps of Root Canal Therapy

  • An access opening into the pulp is made through the top surface of the tooth.
  • Small files are inserted to the full length of each root canal.
  • Sequentially larger files are used to create a tapered shape within each canal.
  • Each canal is then filled and sealed, and a temporary filling is placed into the access opening.
  • The patient returns to their dentist for placement of a crown.

Root Canal Myths

If you’ve heard the common expression, “as painful as a root canal.” Well relax! With advances in pain management in dentistry, this expression is simply a myth.

It is generally a comfortable treatment that can save your tooth and keep your mouth healthy.

Root Canal Safety

The effectiveness of root canal treatment is well-established. However, misinformation continues to circulate on the Internet that may cause patients to question the safety of endodontics.  It is in the best interest of patients to understand there is no valid, scientific evidence linking root canals to cancer or other health problems. Advancements in modern dentistry that make endodontic treatment predictable, effective and successful.

If you have any questions about our Endodontic Services,
please contact us using our handy contact form.

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