Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment can save an infected tooth from otherwise certain extraction—it’s a proven procedure that will leave your mouth healthy and strong while restoring its natural appearance.
Quit Suffering So You Can Smile Again
Are you experiencing persistent tooth sensitivity after eating or drinking hot or cold foods? Or perhaps sharp pain when biting or chewing? These are often signs that the pulp inside your tooth is infected. This can happen due to a deep crack, an injury, or advanced tooth decay that has reached the root. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, leading to a painful abscess, and in severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted. If you’re noticing symptoms like these, especially a severe toothache, we’re here to help.
At Elan Dental, our skilled team offers expert endodontic care, including root canals in both Rolesville and Raleigh, NC. A root canal is a safe and effective way to remove infection and inflammation from inside the tooth, stopping it from spreading further. Don’t let the fear of the procedure delay your treatment. Our root canal services are designed to relieve your pain, not add to it, and they can help you keep your natural tooth intact!
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What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure used to save a tooth when the nerves inside become inflamed. The dentist must remove the infected tissue in order to save the tooth and remove the pain. Once that is done, the infected area is cleaned out.
Root Canal Symptoms
A patient suffering from an infected root canal will almost certainly recognize something is wrong. They will usually be in severe pain and will notice the following symptoms:
- Severe and intense toothaches that won’t go away
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks
- Swollen and tender lymph nodes
- Recurring abscesses on the gums
Generally, but not always, a crown will need to be placed after the root canal treatment is complete to protect the tooth from further damage.
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How is root canal treatment performed?
Root canal treatment starts with digital X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. The dentist will carefully access the tooth’s inner structure and carefully clean out the infectious material to leave the tooth as a hollowed-out structure. Then they flush the area with an antimicrobial liquid. The tooth is then treated with a medicated filling substance to offer support and strength to help the tooth heal promptly. To protect the tooth, a dental crown is placed over the structure to prevent fractures and breakages.
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How long does the pain from a root canal last?
There is a common misconception that root canals are very painful. The truth is, root canal procedures aren’t usually any more painful than a tooth filling. Dentists typically provide an anesthetic to limit discomfort during and a short while after the procedure.
Some sensitivity and discomfort are common while the area around the root canal heals. Gums can become swollen or agitated during the procedure, which results in mild pain. This pain should subside when the tooth is healed. After your treatment, your dentist will provide you with special instructions on how to care for your newly treated tooth.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about root canal treatment, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
