Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?

During the procedure, you’ll be numb just like when getting a filling. Afterward, some tenderness or a bruised feeling when chewing is common. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen usually help ease this discomfort.

How painful is a root canal really?

Root canals are much less painful than people expect. We use strong local anesthesia and advanced technology to make the process comfortable and virtually pain-free.

What is the recovery time involved with a root canal?

Most patients return to normal activities immediately. Some soreness or tenderness may last for a few days but can be managed with common painkillers.

how long will my mouth be numb after the procedure?

Numbness usually lasts 2-3 hours. Avoid chewing until the numbness wears off to prevent accidental biting. Soft foods and drinks are okay.

what will happen at my appointment?

If you have not already completed the forms in the Patient Registration section of this site, we will provide an ipad for you to use when you arrive in order to complete the registration here at the office. Once they have been reviewed, X-ray(s) may be taken to utilize during the evaluation of your symptoms and testing of the tooth and neighboring teeth so the doctor can determine the appropriate treatment. The tooth will be numbed with local anesthetic before the procedure is initiated. Detailed treatment information is available on specific procedures which may be needed to treat your tooth.

what will happen after my appointment?

If your treatment is completed in one appointment, we will place a temporary filling and assist you with setting up your permanent restoration appointment with your general dentist. A report containing the treatment details and a post-operative x-ray will be sent to your dentist. If it is not possible to complete the root canal in one visit, medication will be placed in the tooth then sealed with a temporary filling until your next appointment with us, usually 1-2 weeks later.

wIll i need a crown after my root canal?

Many teeth, especially molars, need a crown to protect them after root canal treatment. Wait until your dentist places the permanent crown before chewing on that tooth to avoid damage.

Will i need to return to your office for follow-ups after the procedure is finished?

Yes, we recommend a follow-up about one year after treatment to ensure healing. We’ll remind you when it’s time. There is no charge for this visit.

is that normal to still feel sore a week later?

Yes, some tenderness or sensitivity can last for a few weeks as the tooth and surrounding tissue heal.

How long do root canals take?

Each case is different, but typically a root canal takes between one to two hours.

What if i decide not to have a root canal?

The alternative to root canal treatment is removal of the tooth. Once the pulp is affected beyond its ability to heal, it will lead to either an inflammatory response or an infective reaction. Neither is healthy, and both require some form of treatment. Extraction is an option, but saving your natural tooth is usually best when possible.

What is the success rate for root canals?

Root canal therapy is usually very successful on the first treatment. Most studies show the success rate of root canals to be at as high as 95 percent.

will my tooth become discolored after a root canal?

This is very unlikely with our modern techniques. Occasionally, we will see patients with old root canals that have resulted in tooth discoloration. In these cases, we can do an internal tooth bleaching procedure to restore the tooth to a healthy white.

What is dental pulp?

Dental pulp is made up of a mass of nerves, blood vessels, and other cells and fibers located inside the center of the tooth. It can become infected when bacteria in the mouth and saliva enter the tooth through decay, a deep filling, or a crack caused by accidental injury or years of wear and tear. When dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected, it may need to be removed through a root canal.

What is gutta percha?

Gutta-Percha is the filling most commonly used by endodontists to seal the area where the dental pulp used to be. It is a safe, natural, and biocompatible material made from the sap of the tropical gutta-percha tree.