Root Canals

If you have been told that a root canal is necessary to save one of your teeth, it is important that you understand why this procedure is necessary and what happens during root canal treatment.

Root canal treatment (endodontics) treats disorders of the nerve (also called the pulp) of diseased or infected nerve had to be removed. In 95 percent of the cases today, however, this is not longer true. We believe in saving teeth. We make every effort to help you keep your natural teeth for a lifetime!

What Makes a Root Canal Necessary?

If a cavity forms and is allowed to go untreated for too long, it can penetrate to the root pulp where an infection can occur. When the root pulp is affected in this way, the root can become abscessed, causing swelling and pain.

What Happens During Treatment?

1. First, we want to relieve any discomfort you might be experiencing and ensure your comfort throughout the treatment by numbing the affected tooth.

2. Second, we carefully remove the diseased pulp. The root canal area inside your tooth is cleaned, enlarged and shaped. The root canal and pulp chamber may be permanently filled and sealed. In some cases, we place a temporary medication in the tooth to control bacterial growth and reduce infection.

3. Third, a temporary filling is placed in the opening of the tooth until the next visit. Some cases vary. We will decide what is right for your case and do whatever is necessary to assure your comfort and satisfaction.

4. At the next appointment, we sterilize the inside of the tooth and take x-rays throughout the procedure to ensure that all of the infected pulp is removed.

5. To complete the process, the root canal and pulp chamber are permanently filled and sealed.

A Final Word

Throughout your root canal treatment, you may have questions or concerns not covered here. We will make every effort to ensure your comfort during root canal treatment. And we’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Our goal is to help you preserve your natural teeth for a lifetime, so you can smile with confidence!

Click below to learn more about our General Dentistry services:

Fillings
Root Canals
Crowns
Bridges
Wisdom Teeth
Children
Sedation