What is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy (endodontics) involves the removal of inflamed or infected tissue and bacteria from the root canal systems within a tooth. The canals are located, cleaned, shaped, and filled to prevent bacteria from re-entering the pulp spaces. In this way, the tooth is retained and the body maintains a healthy attachment of the tooth to the jaw.
Why is root canal therapy needed?
The nerve may become damaged by bacteria associated with past or present decay, a crack in the tooth, or by a traumatic blow. Root canal therapy allows you to keep the natural tooth in a healthy state rather than substituting it with an artificial tooth.
Will the treatment be painful?
We will take every measure to ensure that your procedure is in no way uncomfortable or painful. Most of our patients fall asleep during treatment. The appointment itself is similar to a 90 minute appointment for a dental filling.
Will I need x-rays?
We will take x-rays during your consultation. If you have x-rays from your general dentist, please bring them with you. Dr. Wright uses the latest in digital X-Ray technology. Digital x-rays are produced by computers which allows the doctors a fast and reliable way to determine the course of treatment you may require. Also, digital x-rays reduce your radiation exposure by 85% providing you with the assurance of safety and continuity.
How long does a root canal treatment take?
Root canal treatment usually can be completed in one visit. In some cases a second visit is required. Please allow 2 hours for your office visit. 30 minutes for registration, diagnosis, medical history, etc..... and approximately 90 minutes to treat your tooth.
Will I need to return to your office for follow-ups after the procedure is finished?
For most root canal treatments, we recommend that patients return to the office 1 year after the procedure is finished for a brief recall exam. Our office sends a reminder notice to you when you are due for a recall appointment. There is never a fee for a recall exam.
What do I do after my root canal treatment?
You will be given oral and written instructions by the staff after your treatment. If you are given pain and/or antibiotic medications, please take as directed.
What if the tooth continues to be uncomfortable after my appointment?
Root Canal treatment is usually very successful, however, if symptoms persist, please call our office to schedule a followup appointment.
What if I choose not have the treatment?
The alternative to root canal therapy is the removal of the tooth. Once the pulp is injured, it cannot heal and it is not recommended to leave the infected tooth in the mouth. Remember that pain is not a good indicator of disease. An abcess in your jaw should never be "watched" simply because it doesn't hurt. Hypertension, diabetes, and early stages of cancer are not painful, but no one would recommend to leave these conditions untreated. While some people would prefer an extraction, it is usually advisable to keep the natural teeth if possible.
If general dentists are trained to do root canals, why is my dentist referring me to you?
A general dentist does receive training in dental school to do basic root canals. Most of the training is in a classroom using either tooth models or extracted human teeth.
The amount of actual root canal treatment done on patients varies depending on the dental school. Most schools require between 5 to 12 root canals to be done before graduation.
Before I completed my specialty training, I did lots of root canals as a general dentist. Patients would often ask me why I was moving half way across the country to go to a root canal specialty program when I was already doing them now.
The best answer is through the use of the following analogy:
My son took music lessons to learn to play the guitar for 2 years. At the end of the two years, he had a basic knowledge of the guitar. You could say, "he knew how to play a guitar."
Compare that to a student who is fascinated with learning everything they can about the guitar. They apply to numerous conservatories around the country. If they have the skills and grades to be accepted, they begin their training. They study music history and literature, music education and music theory. They spend their entire training period studying about music and the guitar.
After their intense training is completed, they could be considered to be a "specialist guitar player."
So both people have training to play the guitar, but there is a big difference in the skill and knowledge level.We pride ourselves on providing the best root canal treatment in the area. Dont you deserve the best?
