What are root canals?
Root canals are an in-office procedure used to remove the infected or inflamed pulp from the center of a tooth.
The pulp helps your permanent teeth come in and provides temperature sensations like hot and cold, but it isn’t necessary for their long-term survival. Removing the pulp limits the risk of further complications while preserving your smile.
At Adler Dental Group, we might recommend a root canal if you have:
- Been hit in the mouth
- Deep cavities
- Undergone several dental procedures on a single tooth
- Chipped or fractured teeth
The most obvious sign of pulp damage is swelling and tooth sensitivity. Some people also experience a sensation of pain or swelling in their gums.
What do root canals involve?
At Adler Dental Group, most root canals can be performed in one visit:
Step one - oral exam
At the beginning of your appointment, we conduct an oral exam, ask about your symptoms, and take a series of oral X-rays. After assessing the affected tooth, we administer a local anesthetic before beginning the procedure. Dr. Adler has pioneered a special injection technique that numbs your mouth without the numb, puffy feeling.
Step two - root canal
Once the anesthesia sets in and you’re comfortable, we remove the infected or damaged pulp and irrigate the canal with a dental solution. Then, we fill the center of your tooth with a rubbery material called gutta-percha.
Step three - impressions
When the gutta-percha dries, we may take impressions of your tooth in the case that we also recommend a crown to protect your tooth. We use your impressions to create a custom crown that fits your tooth perfectly.
Step four - applying the crown
If we recommend a crown to protect your remaining tooth, we line it up with your natural tooth and bond it in place. Then, we trim any excess material, polish your tooth, and provide you with care instructions.
What is recovery like after a root canal?
Following a root canal, there is typically no sensitivity after the procedure. Dr. Adler is technically experienced, so it’s unlikely that you’ll experience any pain or swelling.
After about two hours, you can continue consuming solid foods. Take over-the-counter pain medication if necessary to minimize discomfort.
Continue brushing and flossing as normal, but be gentle. Any discomfort should subside within two days.
To learn more about root canals, make an appointment at Adler Dental Group by calling the office to speak with a team member or using the online booking tool.
