Root Canal Therapy Services

Get Relief With Root Canal Therapy

No one looks forward to a root canal. However, when you've got a toothache that won't go away, that root canal can be your chance at relief. We are your local root canal experts at Hartwood Dental Associates.

A root canal is preferred when your tooth is decayed or infected. This process can actually save the tooth by removing the nerves, bacteria, and decay from the inside. The space that remains is then filled with a special, medicated dental material. This allows the tooth to return to full, normal, healthy function.

Without treatment, the tooth's condition would get worse and probably lead to extraction. Some people think that extraction is a better solution, but it's actually a more expensive and painful process with a longer recovery time and the risk of damage to other teeth. Root canals, on the other hand, work very well and typically last a lifetime with a low risk of recurrent problems in the tooth.

Some signs you might need a root canal include a gum abscess, sensitivity to heat and cold, severe toothache, swelling, and tenderness. However, in some cases, no symptoms may be present. It's important to have regular dental exams to catch these problems early.

Call now if you're experiencing tooth pain. Emergency same-day appointments are available. We are certified for root canals, and we work with your insurance.

What to Expect With Root Canal Therapy

At Hartwood Dental Associates, we do not suggest a root canal for every toothache. We'll assess your tooth to see if the problem warrants that kind of intervention. In general, once the decay has reached the tooth pulp or the living tissue inside your tooth, we'll take action. A root canal is also recommended for an infection or abscess inside the tooth or at the root tip. Trauma or injury could also necessitate care.

A root canal is not as scary as most people think it is. We will start by numbing the area. When the tooth has no feeling, we will place a sheet of rubber around the tooth to deter saliva. Then, we'll open the top of the tooth and place a series of root canal files into the opening.

These files remove the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If decay is present, we'll use additional tools to remove it as well. The idea is to get the inside of the tooth cleaned thoroughly. We'll seal the area with a permanent filling or a temporary filling if more work is needed.

In about a week, we'll do a follow-up appointment. If more work is needed, we'll finish up and place a permanent filling. When we're done, we'll finish the work with a crown. The crown protects the tooth and gives it added strength to give you full functionality once more.

At first, your tooth may be sensitive. However, the inflammation should subside with a little time. In general, root canals are easy to manage. Continue to use good oral hygiene and visit us regularly for ongoing cleanings and exams. Your root canal therapy can be part of your lifelong dental care!