Root canals have been around for centuries. In fact, the ancient Greeks and Romans were known to use primitive root canal techniques to relieve tooth pain. Thankfully, modern-day root canal treatments are much more effective and comfortable!
Our experienced dentists will examine the affected tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action.
Before starting the procedure, we'll administer local anesthesia to numb the area and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
Our dentists will make a small hole in the top of the affected tooth to access the pulp chamber.
Using specialized tools, we'll carefully remove the infected pulp and clean out the root canals to remove any remaining bacteria or debris.
Once the canals have been thoroughly cleaned, we'll fill them with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha to seal them and prevent future infections.
Depending on the extent of the damage, we may recommend placing a crown or other type of restoration to protect the tooth and restore its function.
An anterior root canal is performed on the front teeth and is usually completed in one visit. The procedure is relatively simple and is often done in less than an hour. After the procedure, the tooth will be restored with a filling or crown.
A posterior root canal is performed on the back teeth and can take longer than an anterior root canal. The procedure may be completed in one or two visits, depending on the complexity of the case. After the procedure, the tooth will be restored with a filling or crown.
Our experienced dentists, Dr. Leah Stroing and Dr. Megan White, use the latest techniques and technology to ensure that your root canal treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible. We also provide sedation options for patients who may be anxious about the procedure.
A root canal is a common dental procedure performed to save a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. Inside each tooth, beneath the white enamel and a hard layer called dentin, is a soft tissue called pulp. This tissue contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, which help grow the root of your tooth during its development. When this pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
In a root canal procedure, the infected or inflamed pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed. Contrary to popular belief, root canals are not painful procedures. In fact, they are performed to relieve the pain caused by the infection or inflammation in the pulp.
At Stroing and White Dental, your comfort and care are our top priorities. Drs. Leah Stroing and Megan White are highly skilled in performing root canal procedures with precision and minimal discomfort.
The procedure begins with administering local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. Once the area is numb, a small protective sheet called a dental dam is placed over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure.
Next, a small opening is made in the crown of the tooth. Using very small instruments, your dentist will clean the pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals, and then shape the space for filling.
After the space is cleaned and shaped, it is filled with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the root canals. In most cases, a temporary filling is used to close the opening.
Root canal treatments are performed under local anesthesia, ensuring the affected tooth and surrounding area are completely numb during the procedure. Therefore, patients typically do not experience pain during the root canal itself. Additionally, Drs. Stroing and White offer nitrous oxide, a safe and effective sedation option, to help patients relax and alleviate any anxiety they might have during the procedure. This ensures a painless and stress-free experience for individuals undergoing root canal treatment.
The recovery period after a root canal procedure is typically short. You may experience some sensitivity in the treated area for a few days, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
It's important to avoid biting or chewing on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored by your dentist to prevent any damage. A follow-up visit will be scheduled to remove the temporary filling and replace it with a permanent one. If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to hold the filling, a crown may be placed.
At Stroing and White Dental, we're committed to providing you with the very best care. Drs. Stroing and White have the experience and expertise to ensure your root canal procedure is as comfortable and effective as possible.