Root Canal THERAPY

What is a root canal?

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.

At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.

How is a root canal performed?

If you experience any of these symptoms, Dr. Yang will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or two visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. We use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.

What happens after root canal treatment?

FOLLOW UP APPOINTMENT

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a follow up appointment will be scheduled in the next few weeks for the permanent restoration or to start the process for a crown.

MEDICATIONS AND COLD COMPRESS

It is normal to feel sore in the treated area for the next few days. Your jaw may also feel tender from keeping it open for an extended period of time during your root canal therapy. Antibiotic and pain medication may be given as part of the treatment. If given, take the medications as instructed. If no pain medication was given, you may take over the counter medication such as Advil or Tylenol to help with discomfort.

An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep tenderness to a minimum. Do not place the compress for more than 15-20 minutes at a time.

BRUSHING AND FLOSSING

You can brush and floss your tooth as usual.

HYDRATION AND DIET

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Do not bite or chew on your tooth until a permanent filling has been placed. Stay on a soft diet on the first 24-48 hours if you are experiencing soreness and jaw pain. Examples of soft foods are Jell-O, soups, boiled hamburger, tofu, whipped potatoes, mashed bananas, yogurt, cottage cheese, and soft cooked vegetables, rice, and fish.

CALL THE DENTIST

Call our office at 828-256-3400 if you experience severe pain, swelling, treated tooth is fractured or chipped, entire temporary filling has fallen out, or reaction to a prescribed medication (if given).

How much will root canal treatment cost?

The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.