ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

Root canal treatment, one of the most feared dental procedures, is enjoying a more positive reputation among patients these days. If you, like many people, think a root canal means hours of anguish in your dentist’s chair, you’ll be pleased to learn that most root canal treatments now take less than an hour and can be virtually painless.

Root canals are needed when the pulp – the soft tissue inside the tooth – becomes inflamed or infected as the result of deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracking, or chipping.

During a root canal, the Endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp and then cleans, fills and seals the canals inside the tooth. After the procedure, the Endodontist returns the patient to a general dentist for crown replacement or other restorative work. After restoration, the tooth continues to function normally.

ENDODONTIST

Endodontists are dentists who specialize in performing root canal treatments, saving natural teeth, and relieving oral and facial pain.

Using the latest dental technologies, Endodontists have transformed procedures that once were completed with the naked eye and standard dental instruments into modern microsurgery. Endodontists’ expertise in performing root canals, their advanced training in administering anesthesia, and their use of technologies not generally utilized by general dentists result in a more positive patient experience and make root canal treatment more effective and predictable.

COMMON ENDODONTIC SYMPTOMS

If you have experienced any of the symptoms listed below, you may need a root canal:

• Prolonged tooth sensitivity to heat or cold
• Tenderness of teeth to touch or while chewing
• Facial or oral swelling