Root Canal Treatment

What is root canal treatment?

If you have a decaying or infected tooth, root canal treatment is a way to save your tooth from further decay, becoming loose, and even tooth loss. In the past, having a tooth with a diseased nerve meant you might have lost that tooth. With advances in root canal treatment, your dentist can often restore it. A root canal is a simple procedure involving one to three office visits.

What are signs I might need a root canal?

If you experience the following signs or symptoms, see the Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates team for an evaluation to find out if you’re a candidate for a root canal:

• A toothache
• Tooth or gum pain
• Hot or cold sensitivity
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• An abscess 
• A large crack
• Tooth discoloration
• Pain with chewing

The sooner you seek treatment for a decaying or infected tooth, the easier it is for your dentist to restore it and save the tooth from falling out or requiring extraction.

Is a root canal right for me?

To determine if you’re a good candidate for a root canal, your Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates dentist reviews your oral health history and symptoms. They examine your teeth and gums and take dental X-rays to develop a treatment plan.

What happens during a root canal treatment?

The first step of root canal treatment is numbing the affected area so you don’t feel any discomfort. Your dentist makes a hole in the top part of your tooth to remove decay and infection from the inside of your tooth. They clean out the affected area, fill the tooth with special dental materials, and seal the tooth closed.

If you’ve had extensive tooth decay, your provider might recommend placing a crown over the top of your treated tooth to strengthen it and protect it from future damage. Crown placement often involves a separate visit, as a dental lab needs time to make your new, custom-fit crown.

What should I expect after root canal treatment?

After root canal treatment, your tooth might feel a little sensitive for a few days. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed and call Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates if you experience new symptoms or worsening pain.

Your newly restored tooth can last a lifetime with proper at-home care. Brush and floss regularly, attend six-month checkups at Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates, and avoid chewing on hard objects.

Don’t let a toothache go untreated, putting you at risk of more serious oral health problems. Schedule an appointment by phone or online with Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates to find out if you need a root canal.