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.

Root Canal Treatment

The pulp is a delicate inner structure of a tooth that is normally safeguarded by the strong enamel material surrounding it. However, harmful bacteria can sometimes gain access to the pulp, causing a severe infection. This can happen due to deep cavities or unforeseen injuries. Without treatment, loss of the tooth is likely. Root canal treatment is an effective way to manage a serious inner tooth infection.

A root canal procedure involves removing the infected pulp from inside the tooth’s root canal, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then filling and sealing it to prevent further infection. This process helps to save the natural tooth and alleviate pain and discomfort caused by infection or inflammation.

root canal graphic
  • What is a root canal?

    A root canal is a dental procedure that aims to save a tooth that has been inflamed due to tissue, nerve, and blood vessel damage. To eliminate the pain and preserve the tooth, the dentist needs to remove the diseased tissue and cleanse the infected area. Afterward, the canal is medicated to promote healing of the surrounding area.

    Symptoms of an infected root canal are:

    • Severe toothaches that persist
    • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks
    • Swollen lymph nodes
    • Recurring abscesses on the gums

    In most cases, a crown or filling is necessary to protect the tooth from further damage after the root canal treatment.

  • How is root canal treatment performed?

    Before your root canal procedure, we will take digital X-rays to determine the extent of damage. Following this, sedation is given for comfort as the dentist removes any infectious material. Next, an antimicrobial solution is flushed out through the root canals and down to the jawbone. The tooth is then treated with a medicated filling material to provide support and strength, as well as to speed up the healing process.

  • How long does the pain from a root canal last?

    Many people believe that root canals are extremely painful, but this is actually a common misconception. In reality, the root canal procedure itself is typically no more painful than getting a tooth filling. Before the procedure, dentists will usually provide an anesthetic, which helps minimize any discomfort during and immediately after the procedure.

    After the procedure, it’s normal to feel some sensitivity or discomfort as the area around the root canal heals. The gums may become swollen or irritated during the procedure, which can lead to mild pain or sensitivity. However, any pain or sensitivity should subside as the tooth heals.

  • What are alternatives to root canal treatment?

    Many individuals who require root canal treatment often wonder if any other procedures could be used instead. As endodontic therapy is typically considered the last resort for restoring the tooth, other options, such as tooth extraction or postponing the treatment until the pain becomes unbearable, may seem feasible. However, both of these alternatives carry the risk of the infection spreading deeper into the adjacent teeth or face. Thus, it is highly recommended to opt for a root canal treatment as it ensures the best possible solution. In case you choose to have your tooth extracted, it is crucial to replace it promptly to avoid any misalignment in your bite. The two most common replacement options are dental bridges and implants.

More Questions?

If you have more questions about root canal treatment, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.

Sladky Family Dental

500 W. Silver Spring Dr., Suite K275
Glendale, Wisconsin 53217
View Map

Hours

Monday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Friday-Sunday: Closed

Phone

414-332-5450

Email Address

[email protected]