Root canals and other endodontic procedures are highly misconceived by countless people, and we’re here to set the record straight and reassure you that it’s not as bad as the rumors make it sound! Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common questions that we receive from our patients. If you don’t see the answers that you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly.
Are root canals as painful as everyone makes them sound?
Nope! We make sure that the area that we’re operating on is completely numb before we do anything to your tooth, so you won’t feel an ounce of pain. Not to mention, many patients remark about how much better they feel after their tooth has been treated and their pain has disappeared as a result.
Why do I need to have a root canal retreatment?
Root canal retreatments are sometimes necessary for a variety of reasons, including:
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Complicated canal anatomy makes it easy for bacteria to hide and reinfect the tooth.
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Delayed crown placement that makes your tooth vulnerable for longer.
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Salivary contamination within the tooth.
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New decay has formed near the treated tooth.
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Damage to your restoration.
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Damage to the physical tooth.
Treating the inside of teeth is a true artform, but with our advanced technology and skilled endodontic specialists, you can rest-assured that we’ll do everything within our power to restore your tooth’s health quickly and hassle-free.
How can I tell if my child needs endodontic therapy?
Sometimes, decay can progress and result in an infection developing in their tooth. Some signs that this has occurred include:
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Tenderness and swelling of the gums
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Fever, swollen lymph nodes, or general discomfort
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Blood and pus oozing for the affected tooth
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A darkened tooth
If your child is experiencing a combination or one of these symptoms, please contact our endodontic office immediately.
How can I temporarily relieve discomfort caused by a tooth infection?
If you have a long drive to reach our endodontic office or need to wait a little bit before your appointment, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen to temporarily ease your toothache. This will make the discomfort more bearable and help you relax a little better when you arrive at our endodontic office.
Is GentleWave technology more comfortable than a traditional endodontic procedure?
GentleWave is a new, state-of-the-art treatment that uses a vortex of fluids to reach into the smallest nooks and crannies of the roots of your tooth to make sure that no bacteria are left behind. Instead of using metal instruments, it uses acoustic technology to loosen and rinse the pulp and any tooth decay, making it more comfortable and promoting fast and early healing.
How can I make a fast recovery after getting a root canal?
To heal quickly after your treatment, it’s important to follow your endodontist’s aftercare tips, which may include some of the following:
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Elevate your head when you sleep to reduce any swelling
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Take pain medication as directed by your endodontist
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Gargle with warm salt water
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Avoid strenuous activity for a few days after your procedure
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Clean your mouth regularly as directed
How can I avoid getting a root canal?
If your endodontist or dentist has informed you that you need to get a root canal; unfortunately, you’ll need to get one if you don’t want the problem to get any worse and result in permanent tooth loss. While you can’t completely avoid these types of situations always, there are some ways that you can keep them from happening again, including:
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Keep up with a regular dental hygiene routine at home
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Visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning
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Maintain a well-balanced diet
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Stay hydrated with water
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Replace damaged restorations