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What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection of the tooth, and save the natural tooth. When a tooth's nerve or pulp area becomes inflamed or infected due to decay, a crack, or trauma, a root canal becomes necessary. The term "root canal" also refers to the inner passages of the tooth between the pulp and tooth roots.
What Do Root Canals Treat?
Root canals treat a range of issues related to the inside of the tooth.
This includes:
- Deep tooth decay
- Infections resulting from a chip or crack in the tooth
- Injury to the tooth, even if there’s no visible damage
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
You might need a root canal if you're experiencing:
- Severe pain while chewing or biting
- Pimples on the gums
- A cracked or chipped tooth
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been removed
- Swollen or tender gums
- Deep decay or darkening of the gums
The Root Canal Process: What to Expect
Here’s what you can expect:
Aftercare and Recovery
Affordable Care
Experience the Dynamic Dental Design Difference
Flexible Scheduling
Modern Technology
Compassionate Team
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tooth that has had a root canal get a cavity or gum disease?
Yes, a tooth with a root canal can still get a cavity or gum disease. Regular dental exams and good oral hygiene are essential to maintain the health of the tooth.
What is a root canal treatment?
A root canal is a dental procedure that is used to remove diseased pulp tissue from the inside of a tooth. The pulp can become infected with bacteria when the tooth is decayed or injured.
Why would I need a root canal?
You might need a root canal if there is inflammation or infection in the roots of your tooth. Common causes include severe decay, multiple dental procedures on the tooth, a chip or crack in the tooth, or a deep cavity.
Does a root canal hurt?
Modern dental techniques and anesthesia have made root canals virtually pain-free. Expect minimal discomfort during recovery—no more than you would from a dental filling.
How long does a root canal take?
The length of a root canal procedure can vary depending on the situation, but most are completed in one to two visits to our office, each lasting around 90 minutes.
What are the signs I might need a root canal?
Symptoms may include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, tenderness to touch and chewing, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness in the lymph nodes as well as nearby bone and gingival tissues.
Can I go to work or school after a root canal?
Many patients can return to their normal activities the very next day. However, it's best to avoid strenuous physical activity until any discomfort subsides.
What is the success rate of a root canal?
Root canal treatments are highly successful; the procedure has more than a 95% success rate. Many teeth fixed with a root canal can last a lifetime.
How do I take care of my tooth after a root canal?
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it's fully restored; maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular checkups and cleanings; avoid biting on hard foods until the treatment is complete.
Will I need a crown after my root canal?
Most back teeth will require a crown after root canal therapy to provide strength and protection from fracture. Front teeth may not always need crowns if the tooth is not heavily filled.
Is there an alternative to a root canal?
The only alternative to a root canal procedure is the extraction of the affected tooth. This can lead to the adjacent teeth moving, which can cause problems with chewing and jaw joint function. To avoid these complications, extracted teeth should ideally be replaced with an implant or bridge.
How much will a root canal cost?
The cost of a root canal varies depending on the severity of the problem and the tooth affected. At Dynamic Dental Design, we offer competitive pricing and financing options, as well as accept many dental insurance plans to help manage the cost of your treatment.