a. What is an endodontist?

An endodontist is a specialized dentist with additional training in diagnosing and treating complications involving the soft inner tissue of the teeth called pulp.

 

Following completion of four years of dental school, endodontists continue for two or more years in an endodontic residency. Endodontists are also licensed by the state in which they practice.

 

Endodontists predominantly perform root canal therapies, including re-treatment of previous root canals that have not healed completely. Endodontists are also qualified in diagnosing and treating oral and facial pain, as well as treating dental emergencies, such as toothaches, oral trauma, and cracked or displaced teeth. Endodontists can also treat more complex conditions, such as extreme pain, medically compromised patients, and anatomic problems including tooth curvature and calcification. Endodontists also perform certain surgical procedures, most of which are required as an alternative to conventional root canal therapy.

 

Endodontists also routinely obtain continuing education to stay up-to-date on modern research, clinical procedures, and technology, such as operating microscopes, digital imaging, and ultrasonics.

 

 

b. What is a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy or endodontic therapy is the process of removing the pulp (nerve) from the centermost part of the tooth after it has become inflamed or infected. Once the unhealthy tissue is removed, the root canal is then cleaned/disinfected, shaped and sealed with a filling material to minimize the re-entry of bacteria. Root canal treatment, if indicated, allows you to preserve your natural tooth in a healthy state rather than substituting it with an artificial tooth.

 

c. Why is root canal therapy needed?

Root canal therapy is intended to save a tooth that has become necrotic (non-vital), hyper-sensitive due to certain conditions of the tooth or as a result of trauma. Damage to the nerve of your tooth has a number of causes: past or present decay, trauma to the tooth, bacterial leakage through cracks or chips in the tooth, repeated dental procedures such as fillings or crowns. If inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

 

If you have any of the following symptoms you may need a root canal. Please call our office and schedule for an evaluation.

 

• Visible injury or swelling of the tooth

• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers?

• Pain in the tooth or gums

• Discomfort when chewing or biting

• Dull ache?

• Discomfort in your tooth that wakes you up at night

 

*Many times you will have absolutely no pain or awareness on your part when there is a root canal issue, but instead be diagnosed on exam or x-ray by your dentist.

 

 

d. Will the Root Canal Procedure be Painful?

We will take every measure possible to ensure that your procedure is comfortable.

 

If you have never experienced a root canal procedure or if it has been awhile since your last procedure you may have questions or outdated expectations. Modern technology and anesthetics make it possible to perform the procedure faster, more accurately and without discomfort.If treatment is needed, we will gently numb a concentrated area of your mouth. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after 2-3 hours.

 

 

e. Will I Still have discomfort After Root Canal Treatment?

After your visit the root canal treated tooth will not have any hot or cold sensitivity. However, it is normal to experience soreness or mild discomfort for several weeks following treatment. Taking over-the-counter medications such as Aspirin, Advil, Motrin, or Aleve can help alleviate this discomfort. Tylenol has been proven not to be as effective as those listed because it does not have the same anti-inflammatory component. After the root canal, your body begins the healing process and your tooth will become more comfortable over time. If you have discomfort that you can’t control with ordinary pain relievers, or you notice any facial swelling, immediately call our office or emergency line.

 

 

f. How long does root canal treatment take?

Root canal treatment can typically be completed in one visit. Please allow 2 hours for your office visit. In some cases, a second visit is required due to severe pain, swelling, persistent drainage or complex anatomy. A second or even third visit will not require you to pay more, it only means that we want to give you the highest quality root canal regardless of the number of visits it will require.

 

 

g. Will I require further treatment after my root canal?

You will be informed at your visit if you require additional treatment in our office. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. We are available at any time should a problem arise.If you are given pain and/or antibiotic medications, please take as directed. It is often necessary to return to your general dentist to receive a cap or crown over your root canal treated tooth. This will serve as protection for your tooth. Should you neglect to return for the proper restoration, there is an increased risk for failure of the endodontic therapy as well as tooth fracture, and/or premature loss of the tooth.

 

 

h. What if I choose NOT to have root canal treatment?

The alternative to root canal therapy is the removal of the tooth. While some individuals prefer extraction, it is advisable to keep your natural tooth when possible. Once the pulp/nerve is damaged beyond its ability to heal, it is not recommended to leave the infected tooth in the mouth.