For many people, the thought of getting a root canal is frightening and causes feelings of dread. Root canal therapy has gotten a reputation for being very painful.
However, modern root canals are significantly less traumatic; in fact, many times the patient feels only minor discomfort. Plus, the benefits significantly outweigh the discomfort factor.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as a toothache, sensitivity, or swelling, you may need root canal therapy to restore your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is the process of removing infected or decayed tooth matter, along with the tooth’s nerve. The purposes include:
- To rid the tooth of decay or infection
- To prevent future infections
- To restore the tooth’s strength
For patients who have significant tooth decay or an infection inside the tooth, root canal therapy is the ideal treatment. Patients who want to avoid losing the tooth need to undergo root canal therapy.
- The first step is to take x-rays to determine whether infection or other complications are present.
- Next, the patient receives an anesthetic to minimize discomfort. Some patients also opt to use sedation to keep themselves feeling relaxed during the procedure.
- Once the patient is ready, the dentist drills into the tooth and removes the tooth’s pulp as well as the nerve.
- Then, the tooth is sealed to prevent further infection.
- If the tooth’s strength has been compromised, which is often the case, a crown will be placed on top of it to provide stability and enable the patient to chew normally.
The complete root canal procedure is likely to take more than one dental appointment. In some cases, it’s necessary to wait to seal the tooth until the infection has cleared. A separate appointment will also likely be necessary to place a crown over the tooth.
It’s important to schedule regular check-ups every six months to catch decay in its early stages, long before a root canal becomes necessary. As soon as significant decay or infection is detected, we’ll schedule an appointment to begin your root canal therapy.
When is root canal therapy necessary?
A root canal becomes necessary when a patient is in danger of losing a tooth due to decay or infection. Left untreated, an infection can spread, causing a painful abscess, bone loss, and other serious problems.
At Advanced Cosmetic & Family Dentistry we also perform “root end surgery” (also known as an apicoectomy). During this procedure the tip (the apex) of the tooth’s root is removed. This may be necessary if a tooth infection develops or if the infection continues after a root canal procedure has already been done.
Endodontic retreatment may be necessary if your first root canal procedure failed or if those teeth heal improperly. Dr. Darrell Morton and Dr. Brett Silverman offer endodontic retreatment to save the tooth and decrease the amount of pain you’re feeling.
Root canal therapy & treatment — Get the facts today
Schedule your root canal therapy appointment today!
If you’re in need of root canal therapy, rest assured you’re in excellent hands with our gentle dentists. Call us today to schedule your consultation appointment for root canal therapy.