Root Canal Therapy is needed when the root of the tooth is damaged due to infection, trauma or a crack in the tooth.  Sometimes this damage can cause pain, swelling or sensitivity to temperatures or chewing.  Other times you may have no symptoms, but the need for a root canal is diagnosed during exam or x-ray. 

Many times root canal therapy is completed in one visit, but sometimes requires two visits.  Once the area is anesthetized, the canals of the tooth will be identified and cleaned, thoroughly removing any infection before they are filled and sealed.  Often times, a restoration such as a crown is needed following a root canal, as the tooth is often weakened by the decay or trauma that necessitated the root canal.

Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that is used to treat a tooth that has become infected or damaged deep inside the pulp of the tooth. While root canal therapy may seem daunting, it is a safe and effective way to save a tooth and prevent the need for extraction.

Why MIGHT I Need Root Canal Therapy?

There are several reasons why you may need root canal therapy, including:

  • A deep cavity that has reached the pulp of the tooth

  • A cracked or fractured tooth

  • A tooth that has undergone multiple procedures

  • Trauma to the tooth

If left untreated, an infected or damaged tooth can lead to severe pain, abscesses, and even tooth loss. By undergoing root canal therapy, you can save your tooth and prevent further complications.

What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy typically takes one or two appointments to complete. Here's what you can expect during each appointment:

First Appointment:

  • We will numb the affected tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic.

  • We will then create a small hole in the tooth to access the pulp.

  • Using small instruments, we will remove the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth and clean the inside of the root canals.

  • Once the root canals are cleaned and disinfected, we will fill them with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.

  • If a crown is warranted, we will typically place a temporary filling on the tooth to protect it until your next appointment. Otherwise, we often can place a permanent filling during the same visit.

Second Appointment (if necessary):

  • We will remove the temporary filling (if any) and replace it with a permanent filling or a dental crown.

  • The type of restoration will depend on the extent of damage to your tooth and its location.

After the Procedure

After your root canal therapy, you may experience some sensitivity and discomfort for a few days. We may prescribe or recommend pain medication to help manage any pain or discomfort. It's important to continue brushing and flossing regularly to keep the treated tooth and surrounding area clean.

It's also essential to attend any follow-up appointments to ensure the tooth is healing properly.

Root canal therapy may seem intimidating, but it is a safe and effective way to save a damaged or infected tooth. If you're experiencing tooth pain or suspect you may need root canal therapy, contact us to schedule an appointment. We can then evaluate your tooth and recommend the best course of treatment for your needs.