Root Canal Treatment
Serving Chester and Montgomery Counties
What are Root Canals?
Endodontic root canals are specialized dental procedures aimed at treating the innermost part of the tooth, known as the dental pulp. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged, root canal treatment becomes necessary to save the tooth from extraction and alleviate pain. We understand root canal treatment isn’t your ideal pastime, but we assure you we are committed to your comfort, every step of the way. Before you know it, your tooth will be restored to health so you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Relieves Your Pain
Root canal therapy relieves dental pain by removing the infected pulp – the source of discomfort. Once the damaged pulp is removed, the tooth is cleaned, filled, and restored, providing relief.
Stops Infection
Stop the spread of infection and preserve your natural tooth. By removing the infected pulp and sealing your tooth, the infection won’t spread to neighboring teeth or cause more significant oral health issues.
Preserves Oral Health
Often, root canal therapy prevents the need for extraction by conserving your natural tooth. You can maintain proper chewing function, prevent shifting of surrounding teeth, and save your natural smile.
The Root Canal Process
Diagnostics & Prep
Your endodontist will take a thorough history of your symptoms and preform diagnostic tests and x-rays of your teeth to determine if root canal treatment is necessary. If treatment is needed and you decide to start treatment at this visit, we will make the procedure as comfortable as possible by administering local anesthetic and offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for patients who are more anxious.
Treatment
Your endodontist will place a plastic shield (rubber dam) to isolate your tooth. This ensures that the procedure is as sterile as possible while also providing safety to the rest of your mouth. Any decay or broken filling will be removed, as well as the diseased nerve (pulp). Your tooth will then be thoroughly disinfected before completing the root canal.
Root Canal Filling & Temporary Restoration
The disinfected root canals will then be filled with a biocompatible material completing the root canal. Your endodontist will place a temporary restoration in your tooth, which will seal your tooth until you are able to follow up with your general dentist.
Internal Bleaching
Have you observed a change in tooth color following a trauma that required a root canal? We offer internal bleaching, a cosmetic dental procedure that focuses on brightening discolored or stained teeth from within. It’s an effective way to improve the appearance of teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, helping to restore your natural smile without needing to cover your natural tooth with a crown or veneer.
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FAQs
Why would I need an Endodontic procedure?
Endodontic procedures, such as root canals, are necessary to treat teeth with infected or damaged dental pulp. The pulp serves as the tooth's nerve and blood supply. When it's damaged or infected, removing it is essential to relieve pain and prevent the infection from spreading.
How long is the recovery period after a root canal?
The recovery period after a root canal is typically a few days. You may experience some mild discomfort, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. We may provide an antibiotic or other prescription medication depending on your specific needs.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
The duration of a root canal procedure depends on the complexity of the case, but it usually takes one to two hours. Some cases may require multiple visits depending on the presence of infection.