Your Questions
Our patients are often curious about information specific to the needs of the root canal patient. Below is a list of the most commonly asked questions we encounter. If you need additional information on a topic not listed below, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (253) 851-5544 or by email at info@gigharborendo.com.
What is an endodontist?
An endodontist is a dentist with extensive training in the treatment of problems in the root canal of a tooth. This specialty training takes two or more years beyond dental school and means an endodontist is an expert in root canal treatments. An endodontist only performs root canal procedures.
What makes you different from other
endodontists?
- Dr. Smith practiced as a general family dentist for 14 years before receiving his specialist training in endodontics. This allows him to understand the full scope of dental care and how best to work with your general dentist for your best outcome. He can truly be a partner with your dentist.
- Dr. Smith is extraordinarily gentle.
- Dr. Smith is dedicated to the comfort and health of his patients. He believes his patients should not have to remain in pain waiting for an appointment date. If needed, we can perform emergency treatment to get our patients comfortable until the root canal treatment itself can be completed.
- Dr. Smith is highly skilled and specially trained in endodontics. This allows him to provide top quality care and achieve the very best outcome possible for each patient.
Why do I need a root canal?
Inside the tooth there is an area known as the pulp chamber, which contains the dental pulp (the nerves and blood supply to the tooth). This area can become damaged due to tooth trauma or significant dental decay, and the pulp can begin to die. Once the pulp becomes infected, the infection can travel down the root of the tooth and affect the bone around the tooth causing an abscess to form. The goal of endodontic therapy is to save the tooth by removing the infected or damaged pulp and filling the empty canals with an inert material called gutta-percha. A root canal is performed to alleviate certain symptoms associated with a dying pulp.
These include:
- A tooth that hurts significantly when you bite down on it, touch it or push on it
- Sensitivity to heat
- Sensitivity to cold that lasts longer than a couple of seconds
- Swelling near the affected tooth
- A discolored tooth with or without pain
If root canal treatment is not completed, the tooth may need to be extracted.
As an endodontic patient, what should I expect?
The first step is a diagnostic and treatment planning appointment. At this 40-minute appointment we will review your health history, take a digital x-ray and test the tooth to determine its vitality. Dr. Smith will then explain his diagnosis, review your treatment options and his recommendations, and answer your questions. A staff member will explain the cost of treatment. If you have dental insurance, we will review your insurance benefits with you and provide you with an estimate of your out-of-pocket expenses based on what your insurance company has told us. This is an estimate only and is offered as a courtesy to our patients. We will provide you a copy of this estimate and of Dr. Smith’s treatment explanation. Then we can schedule your appointment.
The next appointment is the treatment appointment and usually takes from 60-90 minutes. The doctor will anesthetize the area, the assistant will place a rubber dam, and then they will perform the root canal procedure needed to save your tooth. Depending on the restorative treatment plan, either a temporary or a permanent filling will be placed. Afterward, we will send your general dentist a report describing your root canal treatment. Most patients quickly return to their normal routine. It is important to follow up with any other restorative treatment as soon as possible.
We look forward to seeing you out and about in the community with a happy, healthy smile and a well-functioning tooth!
Why not just pull the tooth?
Tooth extraction is permanent resulting in a space between the teeth. Tooth extraction can ultimately result in other dental problems such as:
- Shifting or rotating of teeth
- Biting and chewing problems
- Jaw pain
Often a patient will need to have additional treatment to fill the
space such as bridgework, partials, or implants. In most cases
these options are not as beneficial as keeping your natural teeth throughout
your lifetime.
Will it hurt to have a root canal?
In most cases, no! Root Canal Treatment is usually a painless procedure. While root canal treatment has a certain “reputation,” it is the problem that most people relate their pain to and not the “cure”. With modern local anesthetics and injection techniques, most procedures are done with the patient free of pain. Depending on the problem that needs treatment, there may be some soreness afterwards as the tissues around the tooth heal.
|
