Why Do I need A Root Canal?

There are several reasons why you may need a root canal. Regardless of the initial cause, the tooth pulp becomes irritated and an abscess (infection) occurs. Bacteria from saliva grow within the tooth pulp, causing pressure and pain. In some cases your face may swell. Eventually the pulp dies, causing the bone around the tooth to be destroyed. I know you have heard all the scary stories about root canals. Medical advances have changed many things. The scary part of root canals is gone.

What Is Going To Happen?

Once it has determined (with X-rays and/or clinical examination) that root canal treatment is necessary, you will be scheduled for an appointment. It is important that you keep the appointment to prevent delays in treatment and healing. It is also essential that you take all antibiotics and medications prescribed to hasten healing and reduce swelling. Should you experience pain that cannot be controlled with the prescribed medication call our office immediately. This is unusual, but a precaution.

How Your Teeth Can Be Saved With Endodontic Treatment

An opening is made through the crown into the pulp. (Your tooth will be numbed prior to this procedure.) The infection is then carefully removed. The root canal area inside your tooth is cleaned, enlarged and shaped. Then, depending on your individual case, the root canal(s) and pulp chamber may be permanently filled and sealed. In some cases, however, a temporary medication is placed in the tooth to reduce infection.

The inside of the tooth is sterilized to remove any remaining bacteria. Throughout the root canal procedure we take X-rays to ensure that all of the infected part is removed and that the walls inside the canal are smooth. Then the root canal is permanently filled and sealed. Finally, the tooth is fully restored to chewing functions -- most often with a full crown.

Care Following Treatment

Once the root canal treatment has been completed, you should be aware of the following considerations:

Discoloration - Occasionally an endodontically treated tooth may undergo a change in color. While this is of no great medical concern, you may be interested in having the tooth bleached.

Brittleness - A non-vital (endodontically treated) tooth is more brittle than a vital one, and is more susceptible to fracture. Therefore we recommend that your root canal tooth be crowned (capped) following treatment.

If You Have Further Questions

Throughout your root canal treament you may have questions or concerns not covered in this page. We will make every effort to ensure your comfort during root canal treatment. And we are happy to answer any questions you may have. Our concern is your comfort and confidence. Our goal is to help preserve your natural teeth for a lifetime. Contact us at (828) 264-5858.