A root canal is a treatment used to save a tooth that is badly decayed and/or infected. Nerve and pulp, the soft area within the center of the tooth, can become irritated, inflamed, and infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the face. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
Root canal procedures have the reputation of being painful. In reality, most patients report that the procedure itself is no more painful than having a filling placed. The discomfort experienced in the period leading up to dental care is truly the painful period of time, not the root canal procedure itself.
The root canal procedure should relieve the pain you feel. Until your root canal procedure is completely finished – that is to say, the permanent filling is in place and/or the crown is placed, it is wise to minimize chewing on the tooth under repair. This step will help avoid re-contamination of the interior of the tooth and also may prevent a fragile tooth from breaking before the tooth can be fully restored. For the first few days following completion of treatment, the tooth may feel sensitive due to natural tissue inflammation, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure.
As far as oral health care is concerned, brush and floss as you regularly would and see your dentist at normally scheduled intervals. The final step of the root canal procedure is application of a restoration such as a crown, to cover and protect the tooth.
With our team at Route 64 Dental, you can rest assured that our commitment to high-quality care puts your goals and comfort first. We treat you like family and always recommend the most appropriate care options like root canals when needed, to keep you smiling in the years to come.
I have been going to Dr. Ralph Remus for over 20 years. I have never had an issue with anything he has done, and I've had crowns and root canals galore. He is efficient and friendly. Very happy with the service here! His assistant Trish, is a gem as well!!
We’ve been going to Rt. 64 for over 25 years. Their friendly, professional service is outstanding. From routine cleanings to cavities to crowns, they are exceptional. If extra work needs to be done that they don’t do (e.g., root canals, etc.), they explain the procedure needed in great detail. The office staff are courteous and respectful, and have been excellent at communicating and explaining insurance questions, rescheduling appointments, etc. They take the ‘dread’ out going to the dentist!
Dr. Samuel did a really good job working with me to get my smile right. After years of thinking I was doing the right thing he explained the proper techniques and showed me my areas of concern. Although I only had a couple cavities I was able to get them fixed in no time preventing me from getting a root canal or pulling my teeth. I’m glad I went to him because unlike other dentists he wanted to make sure I didn’t have future cavities and cared about my oral health.