Root Canals

A root canal might sound intimidating, but it’s actually a relief for your tooth! When infection or damage reaches the soft tissue inside your tooth, a root canal removes the infected area and saves your tooth from extraction. With modern techniques and advanced technology, root canals are quick, comfortable, and they can prevent further damage, allowing you to keep your natural smile for years to come.

What to Expect with a Root Canal

A Root Canal Treatment is needed in situations where the decay or cavity goes deep into the tooth entering the nerve or the pulp of the tooth. Typically, patients have throbbing or continuous pain that may be triggered or worsened on chewing or consuming hot/cold foods and liquids. It may even wake them up with pain at night. In severe cases, swelling of the jaw is common too. In some cases, there are minimal or no symptoms, but on a radiograph (x-ray), we can see signs of the infection. Root Canal or Endodontic therapy involves one or more appointments, where the tooth is numbed and the nerve and source of infection inside is removed, the canals cleaned and an inert material is placed inside so as to begin the healing process. Once complete, we strongly recommend the tooth have a crown placed on it, so as to protect it from breaking in the future. We routinely work with root canal specialists, so that our patients receive the highest quality of care. 

Protecting Your Oral Health

A root canal helps save your natural tooth from infection and further damage. By removing the infected tissue and sealing the tooth, it prevents the spread of bacteria to surrounding teeth and gums, keeping your smile intact and preventing the need for more invasive procedures like extractions or implants.

Preventing Pain and Infection

An untreated infected tooth can lead to intense pain and swelling, even affecting the rest of your body. A root canal relieves the discomfort and stops the infection from spreading to other areas like your jawbone, tissues, and bloodstream. This prevents more serious health issues down the line.

Long-Term Health Benefits

By preserving your natural tooth, a root canal helps maintain proper bite alignment and jaw health, ensuring you can chew, speak, and smile comfortably. Keeping your tooth also means you won’t need to replace it with an artificial option, which can be costly and time-consuming, giving you a healthier, more functional smile for years to come.

Root Canals: FAQs

  • Thanks to modern techniques and anesthesia, most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during a root canal. After the procedure, some mild soreness or sensitivity is normal, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, and it subsides quickly.

  • Signs that you may need a root canal include severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling or tenderness around your gums, or a tooth that’s become discolored. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your dentist right away to prevent further damage.

  • The procedure typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes depending on the tooth and severity of the infection. Most people can return to their normal activities the same day. In some cases, additional visits may be required for a crown placement after the root canal.

  • Yes, in most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will need a crown to restore its strength and function. A crown protects the tooth from future damage and ensures it blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.

  • Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are the best way to prevent needing a root canal. If you catch decay early, it can often be treated with a filling, rather than a root canal. Proper brushing, flossing, and addressing any signs of tooth pain early can go a long way in preserving your smile!