Root Canal Treatments

Why do I need a root canal?
The nerve or pulp of a tooth can become injured by a large cavity, large crack, or trauma. All of these scenarios allow bacteria to enter the pulp. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected a root canal is needed. Without treatment, the tooth may develop a more serious infection (abscess) or need to be removed. 

I heard root canals are painful. Is that true?
No, our goal is to eliminate discomfort. Root canal treatments are meant to prevent pain or eliminate pain on a tooth that is already experiencing symptoms. We use local anesthesia to numb the tooth.

What is the process of a root canal?

• The tooth is numbed for comfort and a thin sheet of rubber is placed over your tooth to keep it dry. An opening is made through the top of the tooth into the pulp. 
• The nerve or pulp is removed in each individual root/canal (some teeth have one canal, and some teeth have multiple canals)
• Medicine may be placed inside the tooth to get rid of bacteria. An antibiotic may be prescribed to treat infection that has spread beyond the roots of the teeth. 
• The root canals are filled with a rubber-like material to seal it from future bacteria entering into the tooth.
• A core material (large filling) is placed, followed by a crown that will strengthen the tooth. Sometimes only a filling is needed and not a crown. 

How many appointments does it take?
Usually it takes one appointment to complete the root canal treatment. The number of appointments is dependent on the condition of the tooth and the type of tooth.