What is a root canal?
Our patients often have many questions about root canals. Here are some quick answers that you may have before coming to our office.
-
A root canal is a common endodontic procedure where the endodontist removes infected or inflamed pulp (the root) from the tooth to relieve pain and discomfort.
Do not worry if your dentist recommends you to our office for a root canal. Because anesthesia is used during the process, the procedure itself is not very painful, and you’ll likely be relieved to have your tooth pain go away! There is some discomfort after the procedure, such as soreness or numbness, but this generally lasts only a few days.
-
Generally, endodontic treatment can often be performed in one or two visits. First, Dr. Nieves and his team will take radiographs of your tooth using x-rays, then administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth. After the tooth is numb, Dr. Nieves will make an opening in the crown of your tooth and clean the pulp from the pulp chamber. After that, the root canal is filled with a biocompatible material and then cemented to seal the root canal (usually a temporary filling which will be removed later). Finally, a crown or other restoration is placed on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function (with no more pain!).
-
For the first few days after a root canal, you may experience sensitivity, swelling or inflammation. This is normal, and Dr. Nieves will work with you in the follow up appointment if these symptoms continue to occur.
-
Endodontic technology has improved greatly over the years, so now a root canal is generally no more painful than having a filling or having your wisdom teeth removed.
You may have seen the phrase “Root canals aren’t what they used to be” when Googling about root canals. It’s the truth! We use the latest technology and knowledge to make sure your root canal therapy is as painless as possible.
We take great care in making sure our patients are comfortable and informed before, during and after the procedure. The whole purpose is to improve your dental condition, so your health is our #1 concern!
-
We do! From 2D/3D imaging to help get a clear picture of your teeth to our GentleWave® machine, we use the latest in endodontic treatment technology to make sure you are getting maximum care at Granbury Endodontics.
-
Root canals are designed to last for the rest of your life as long as you take proper care after the procedure and follow your endodontist’s instructions.