Why a root canal may be recommended
Inside each tooth is soft tissue called the pulp. Deep decay, repeated dental procedures, a crack or chip, or an injury can inflame or infect this tissue. A tooth can sometimes be damaged by trauma even when there is no visible fracture.
Symptoms vary. You may notice lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when biting, swelling or tenderness, discoloration, or a pimple-like bump on the gum. In other cases, a problem is first identified during a dental examination or on an X-ray.
What happens during treatment
After the tooth is examined and numbed with local anesthesia, it is isolated to keep the treatment area clean. Dr. Moore creates a small opening in the tooth, removes the inflamed or infected pulp, and carefully cleans and shapes the internal canal space. The canals are then filled and sealed, and a temporary restoration is usually placed.
Treatment may take one or more visits depending on the tooth and the nature of the problem. If additional comfort support is appropriate, the available options can be discussed before care begins.
After your appointment
It is common for the tooth and surrounding tissues to feel tender for a short time, especially if pain or infection was present beforehand. Follow the instructions provided by the office, and call if discomfort is severe, worsens, or does not begin to improve.
Once endodontic treatment is complete, you will generally return to your restorative dentist for a permanent filling, crown, or other restoration. Completing that step promptly helps protect the tooth and restore normal function.
Cost and long-term care
The cost of treatment varies with the tooth involved and the complexity of the problem. During your evaluation, the team can explain the recommended care and the fees associated with it.
Preserving a natural tooth can often avoid the additional procedures needed to replace an extracted tooth. With a sound final restoration and consistent brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, a root-canal-treated tooth can continue to function for many years.
Root canal treatment is intended to relieve the pain caused by damaged or infected pulp—not create it. Modern anesthesia and techniques make the experience similar to other routine dental procedures for many patients.