Endodontics is a specialty within dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the root of a tooth. The most common procedure in this field is the root canal treatment.

A root canal treatment is a procedure where the infected or damaged pulp of a tooth is removed, cleaned, and sealed to prevent further infection. This procedure can save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted.

The main alternative to a root canal treatment is extracting the affected tooth. However, preserving your natural tooth, when possible, is generally the best option for oral health. Other treatments, such as implant placement, bridge, or partial denture, might then be considered after an extraction.

The length of the procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the tooth and the specific situation. A root canal treatment can take between 30 minutes to a few hours. On average our office likes to keep appointment times to around an hour. In some cases, multiple appointments may be required.

Patients are highly encouraged to bring their headphones so that they can listen to their favorite music or podcast during the dental appointment to help pass the time.

Yes, some degree of discomfort or mild pain can be expected after a root canal. The pain is usually due to inflammation and should subside over time. However, if you experience severe pain or discomfort that lasts more than a few days, please contact our office.

For most patients, over-the-counter pain relievers are effective. We recommend taking 600mg of ibuprofen in conjunction with 600mg of Tylenol (acetaminophen) every six hours. Always take medications as directed and ensure there are no contraindications with any other medications you are taking. If pain persists or becomes severe, please reach out to our office.

In many cases, after a root canal treatment, the tooth can become fragile and prone to breaking. To restore its strength and function, a crown is often recommended. Sometimes for front teeth a crown may not always be required. If your tooth already had a crown prior to the root canal it may be possible to save your crown and just fill the small hole needed for the root canal. We will discuss if your tooth needs a crown during your visit.

Initially, avoid chewing or biting on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored by your general dentist. Maintain good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups, to ensure the long-term success of the treatment.

Like any medical procedure, root canal treatment has associated risks, including infection, treatment failure, or a possible fracture of the tooth in the future. However, the procedure has a very high success rate, and complications are rare.

The number of visits needed for a root canal treatment can vary based on the tooth's complexity and the specific situation. Most root canal treatments are completed in one to two visits.

Temporary fillings rarely come out completely. Over time, it might wear down a bit, but if you feel any discomfort or believe it has come out entirely, please contact our office for guidance.

No, you shouldn't be. Dental x-rays expose patients to very low levels of radiation. They're crucial for diagnosing and ensuring the success of a root canal treatment.

Yes, we are in-network with several insurance companies including Delta Dental PPO, Deltacare HMO, Metlife, Cigna, Aetna, and Guardian. For out-of-network insurance companies that we don't accept, we'd be pleased to assist in billing them on your behalf.

Yes, it's normal for a tooth to be sensitive after receiving a filling. This sensitivity should reduce over time. If it doesn’t or becomes severe, please reach out to our office.

While some general dentists do offer root canal treatments, our endodontic office is equipped with advanced equipment such as the EdgePro Erbium laser, Microscopes, Endocator disinfection test, and CBCT microscope. We also utilize specialized materials like MTA and Triton disinfection solution, which might not be available in a general dentist's office. These tools and materials allow us to provide top-notch care and is why many general dentists may refer out to a specialist.

Avoid chewing or biting on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored by your dentist. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups will ensure the continued health of the treated tooth.

Modern techniques and anesthetics make the root canal treatment relatively painless. Most patients compare it to having a regular filling done.

In rare cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal might need a second treatment due to new infections or unresolved issues from the initial procedure. This is called a retreatment.

With proper care, a tooth that has had a root canal treatment can last a lifetime. It's essential to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call our office. Our team is here to assist and ensure your experience is as comfortable and informed as possible.