Endodontics

Endodontics

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is one of the most common dental procedures performed. This simple treatment can save your natural tooth from a severe infection and prevent the need for dental implants or bridges.

At the center of your tooth is dental pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp is often extremely painful and can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures.

Signs you may need root canal therapy include:

  • visible injury or swelling of the tooth
  • sensitivity to temperature
  • pain in the tooth and gums.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does root canal therapy hurt?

Though root canal therapy has a scary reputation, it’s usually not painful. Most patients compare it to receiving a tooth filling.

Should my tooth hurt a week after the procedure?

Some discomfort and pain is normal after your procedure, but severe pain can indicate a problem. If you’re experiencing bleeding or excruciating pain after your root canal therapy, contact us as soon as possible by calling (248) 642-3800.

What is root canal retreatment?

Root canal treatment is the treatment of a tooth with a root canal after a root canal has previously been done on the same tooth. Sometimes, a complex root structure or severe infection can make clearing out all the disease difficult. The infection can spread throughout the tooth again and must be removed.

How much does root canal therapy cost?

The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.

Please call us at 248-642-3800 if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment.

How long does root canal therapy take?

Root canal therapy takes an average of 90 minutes to complete, but your individual experience may vary depending on the extent of infection, location of the tooth, and other factors. Sometimes, two appointments are necessary to ensure the infection is completely cleared out.

How Root Canal Therapy is Performed

If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical  treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured

pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required.

What Happens After Treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth.

It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.

We Can Save Your Smile

Oral disease doesn’t have to mean pain or tooth loss. With root canal therapy, you can keep your natural tooth so you don’t have to worry about replacing it.

To learn more about how we can help you, contact our office by calling (248) 642-3800 or by filling out our online contact form, available on this page. We’re eager to assist you and answer any questions.

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