Root Canals
What is a Root Canal?
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The Alternative to Extraction:
- Root canal therapy is highly successful. Many patients believe that the only option for a severely decayed tooth is to remove it.
- The indications for root canal treatment include: sensitivity to hot and cold, severe tooth pain, swelling or tenderness, abscess on the gums, or there may be no symptoms present.
- Reasons for a root canal may also include injury or trauma, decay that has reached the pulp, and infection within the tooth.
Root canal therapy will involve more than one appointment.
- Dr. Harter will perform the root canal therapy or you may be referred to a specialist for very difficult cases.
- At your first visit, Dr. Harter will numb the tooth and isolate it using a rubber dam. This keeps the tooth dry from saliva and blood. Once isolated doctor creates an access to the inside of the tooth, and all of the infected pulp tissue is removed. Once cleaned, the tooth is sealed from further infection by a permanent filling. In some cases it is necessary to place a crown following the root canal.
FAQs
1. What is a root canal?
A root canal removes infected or damaged pulp inside a tooth to eliminate pain and prevent further infection. After cleaning the canal space, the tooth is sealed and restored to preserve natural function. Most patients feel immediate relief after treatment.
2. How do I know if I need a root canal?
Signs include severe tooth pain, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or a small bump on the gums. In some cases, no symptoms are present. Dr. Harter evaluates X rays and performs tests to confirm whether a root canal is needed.
3. Is a root canal painful?
Modern root canal treatment is comfortable thanks to local anesthetic and advanced techniques. Most patients compare it to getting a filling. After treatment, mild tenderness may occur but improves quickly with over the counter pain relief.
4. How long does a root canal take?
Many root canals can be completed in one appointment. More complex infections may require additional visits or referral to a specialist. After treatment, a crown is often recommended to protect the tooth from future fracture.
5. What happens after my root canal is completed?
Your tooth may be sensitive for a few days. Continue regular brushing and flossing, and avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until restoration is complete. Follow up appointments ensure the tooth heals properly.