Root Canal Frequently Asked Questions

What is a root canal treatment?

A root canal treatment treats infection in the center of a tooth. The diseased or damaged pulp (the soft tissue in the center of the tooth that includes blood vessels and nerves) is removed, and the empty canals running through the tooth roots are disinfected. Gutta-percha, a biocompatible putty, fills the empty canals, and the tooth is sealed closed to prevent re-infection.

Who performs root canals?

Root canals are typically performed by endodontists, dental specialists who diagnose and treat tooth pain and perform root canal treatment. General dentists can also perform root canals, but they may refer complicated cases to an endodontist.

What is involved in a root canal?

There are several steps involved in the root canal procedure:

1. Diagnosis: X-rays are taken to determine the extent of the infection.
2. Anesthesia: We administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area.
3. Pulp removal: We create an opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp, which is removed.
4. Cleaning and disinfection: The empty pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
5. Filling and sealing: We thoroughly clean and disinfect the empty canals, fill them with a biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha), and seal the tooth closed.
6. Restoration: We place a restoration, usually a crown or filling, on the tooth to restore its function and appearance.

Are root canals common?

Yes, root canals are a common dental procedure. Millions of root canal treatments are performed each year, helping to save teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted.

How effective is a root canal?

Root canal treatments are highly effective and have high rates of success. Properly treated and restored teeth can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

How painful is a root canal?

Root canals used to be criticized for being painful, but this is no longer true. Modern treatment techniques make a root canal no more painful than getting a filling. We use a local anesthetic and, in most cases, some form of sedation, so patients do not feel any pain during the procedure. Post-procedure discomfort is minimal.

Thanks to advances in anesthesia and dental techniques, modern root canal treatments are generally no more painful than getting a filling. Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.

What are the benefits of a root canal?

• Pain relief: A root canal immediately relieves the often intense pain of an infected or damaged tooth.
• Preservation of the tooth: Root canals save the natural teeth, avoiding the need for extraction and replacement.
• Restoration of function: After a root canal, you can once again eat, drink, and chew without pain.
• Prevention of further infection: The root canal stops the disease from spreading to other teeth and the rest of the body.

What are the alternatives to a root canal?

In most situations, tooth extraction is the only alternative to a root canal. Unfortunately, tooth extraction leads to various problems, including shifting of the remaining teeth, increased risk of infection due to the empty tooth socket, and jawbone deterioration. If a tooth is extracted, dental restoration is needed.

How safe is a root canal procedure?

Millions of root canals are performed every year with excellent results. Although there is always the risk of complications, they are rare. An endodontist is your best choice for a safe and successful root canal procedure.

What is the best way to recover from a root canal?

Following the post-op instructions we provide to our patients after their root canal is crucial. Take all prescribed medications and rest at home on the day of the procedure. Maintaining good oral hygiene is important, but avoid brushing the area around the root canal on the first day.

Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods until a permanent restoration replaces your temporary crown. Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and placement of the permanent crown.

What is an emergency root canal?

An emergency root canal may be necessary when a tooth is abscessed or the infection spreads quickly, causing significant discomfort or health risks. Emergency root canals are often done to relieve pain and prevent complications. If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, or infection that cannot wait and needs immediate attention, contact our office, and we will instruct you on how to proceed.