Root Canal Therapy

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Root Canal Therapy

Root canals have a bad reputation but this common procedure is now carried out under local anesthesia and is an effective way to save a tooth.

How root canal treatment works

Root canal treatment is also known as root canal therapy or endodontic therapy. You may need a root canal if the pulp or nerves inside your tooth become infected or you have severe decay. Some people experience no symptoms telling them they might need a root canal, but usual signs are:

Sensitivity to hot or cold
Pain when you bite
Swelling
A bad taste in your mouth
Pimples on your gum
Darkening gums

In order to save a tooth, root canal treatment can be performed. The affected area will be numbed and the tooth and its roots thoroughly cleaned of decay. The area will be disinfected and filled. Depending on the tooth, a temporary crown will be fitted until a permanent one is made or sometimes just a filling is necessary.

If you are experiencing tooth pain or any of the other symptoms listed above, contact Lupine Dental to see if you may need root canal treatment.

What to expect after root canal therapy

As you will have had anesthesia, be wary of biting and chewing after root canal treatment to avoid injuring the inside of your mouth. When the anesthesia wears off, you may feel some discomfort which can be treated with over the counter pain medication. If the dentist gives you a prescription for antibiotics, it’s essential to follow the treatment course to avoid infection.

A root canal is an effective way to avoid losing a tooth. With a good brushing and flossing routine and regular visits to the dentist, a treated tooth can last for the rest of your life.

Root canal FAQs

Is a root canal painful?

While many people are under the impression that having a root canal is a painful procedure, it’s now carried out under local anesthesia making the process about the same as any other dental work, such as getting a filling.

Isn’t it easier to pull a tooth rather than have a root canal?

If it’s possible to keep a natural tooth, that’s always the best option. Saving a tooth by having a root canal means that the rest of the mouth remains intact. If you have a tooth extracted, it will need to be replaced by an implant or dental bridge which may have knock-on effects for surrounding teeth.

Does root canal therapy always work?

Most of the time, yes! Root canals have a high success rate so they’re definitely worth trying in order to save a tooth. It’s possible that in a small number of cases, a second root canal may be required in the future but these also have a good chance of being successful.

Root canal and endodontic treatment in Palmer, AK

Root canals are carried out millions of times per year, bringing pain relief and a restored smile to patients across the US. If you’re suffering from tooth pain and live in the Palmer, AK or Mat-Su Valley area, contact Lupine Dental to schedule an appointment with our endodontic specialist today.

Dr. Hunter is great! Thorough and professional but also very relaxed and quiet atmosphere. The best part is how prompt the appointment is, starts on time and I didn't have to wait long to have my procedure completed either, which is excellent! The rooms have massage chairs and help make you more comfortable while you have your teeth cleaned and fixed. The front staff is friendly and helpful also- they will give you a cost estimate up front which I really appreciated so I could plan my visit.

Best dentist, hygienists, and office staff around! Modern, very clean, with extra special comforts you don’t find other places... like heat and massage chairs.

“They’re friendly and they’re warm and they treat you like a human being”

Root Canal Therapy