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Root Canal Therapy
Expert Root Canal Therapy
While root canal therapy is not a dental procedure that anyone looks forward to, when it’s absolutely necessary, our patients can take comfort in knowing that our dentists at Boston Center for Oral Health have decades of experience with performing these procedures. Root canal procedures are the preferred alternative to tooth extraction, which can be costly and painful and cause problems for adjacent teeth.
When is root canal therapy necessary?
Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function..
Why is a root canal better than extraction?
Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would die and have to be removed. Many patients believe that removing a tooth that has problems is the solution, but what is not realized is that extracting a tooth will ultimately be more costly and cause significant problems for adjacent teeth.
Root canal treatment is highly successful and usually lasts a lifetime, although, on occasion, a tooth will have to be re-treated due to new infections.
Signs and symptoms for possible root canal therapy:
- An abscess (or a pimple) on the gums
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Severe toothache pain
- Swelling and/or tenderness
- Sometimes no symptoms are present
Reasons for getting root canal therapy:
- Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth)
- Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip
- Injury or trauma to the tooth
What does getting a root canal involve?
A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist. At Boston Center for Oral Health, we offer traditional root canal therapy and Gentle Wave Root Canal treatment.
- Traditional Root Canal: While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva. An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments.
- Gentle Wave Root Canal: An alternative to standard root canal treatment. The GentleWave System uses fluid to travel through and clean your root canal system. Along the way, broad-spectrum energy helps remove the tissue and debris that cause infection. Unlike standard root canal treatments, the GentleWave Ultracleaning Procedure is able to travel throughout the entire tooth, especially small spaces where bacteria can hide. Discover the benefits of GentleWave Therapy today.
Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.
At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown placed. This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking and restore it to its full function.
After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed. You will be given care instructions after each appointment. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will ensure your continued oral health and the long-lasting results of your root canal treatment.
FAQ
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat infection or damage within the pulp of a tooth. It involves removing the infected tissue, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent future issues.
Why would I need a root canal?
You might need a root canal if you have severe tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or an abscess. Symptoms can include intense toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, and tenderness in the gums.
Is a root canal painful?
Most patients report that the procedure itself is not painful, as local anesthesia is used to numb the area. Post-treatment discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does the procedure take?
A root canal typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. We will provide you with an estimated time frame during your consultation.
How long is the recovery time?
Recovery times can vary, but most patients return to their normal activities within a day or two. You may experience some tenderness for a few days, but this can be managed with medication.
Will I need a crown after my root canal?
Yes, most teeth that undergo root canal therapy will need a crown to restore their strength and function. Your dentist will discuss the best options for your specific situation.
How successful is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy has a high success rate, often exceeding 90%. With proper care, the treated tooth can last a lifetime.
How can I take care of my tooth after a root canal?
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, and keep up with your dental check-ups. Avoid hard foods until your tooth is fully restored.
What are the alternatives to a root canal?
The primary alternative is tooth extraction. However, we recommend preserving your natural tooth whenever possible, as it is generally the best option for your long-term oral health.
How can I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office or visiting our website.
At BCOH, we are here to help you with all your dental needs!