Root Canal / Endodontic Therapy
Root canal treatment addresses inflammation or infection inside a tooth. The goal is to remove diseased pulp tissue, clean and seal the root canal system, relieve the source of symptoms, and preserve a tooth that can still be predictably restored.
Why a Root Canal May Be Needed
Deep decay, a crack, trauma, repeated treatment, or another source of irritation can damage the pulp inside a tooth. Once the pulp cannot recover, endodontic treatment may be needed to preserve the tooth.
Symptoms Vary
Possible signs include persistent toothache, pain with biting, lingering temperature sensitivity, swelling, a gum bump, discoloration, or a history of trauma. Some teeth needing treatment have few or no symptoms.
What Happens During Treatment?
Can Every Tooth Be Saved?
No. A severe root fracture, inadequate remaining tooth structure, poor periodontal support, or other factors may make extraction more predictable than endodontic treatment. The tooth has to be restorable, not simply treatable from the inside.
When an Endodontist May Help
Complex canal anatomy, retreatment, difficult trauma cases, persistent symptoms, or other challenging situations may be referred to an endodontic specialist when that offers the best chance of success.
After the Root Canal
Some tenderness can occur after treatment. Follow the instructions provided, avoid chewing heavily on a tooth that has not received its final restoration, and contact us if swelling, severe pain, or other concerning symptoms develop.
Find Out Whether the Tooth Can Be Saved
An exam and appropriate imaging can help determine whether root canal therapy, another restorative treatment, or extraction is the right next step.
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