A root canal has a bad reputation for being a painful and unpleasant experience. However, the truth of the matter is, a root canal is no more painful or involved than having a dental filling placed. Dr. Gauthier performs root canal procedures in the comfort of his Northborough, MA, dental office near you. He strives to make patients feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible before, during, and after this general dentistry treatment.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
The term “root canal” actually refers to the natural cavity at the center of the tooth. The tooth’s nerve is inside the root canal, surrounded by soft tissue called the pulp. If you have tooth damage or decay, bacteria and debris can enter the root canal area and cause an infection.
But how do you know if you need a root canal? Some patients do not experience any symptoms that would indicate the need for a root canal procedure. However, if a dentist does not treat the infection, symptoms may present themselves in the form of severe pain. Other patients may experience painful symptoms as soon as the infection forms, including:
- Severe toothache or tooth pain, particularly when chewing or biting
- Prolonged tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods and drinks
- Discoloration of the tooth (darkening)
- Soreness or tenderness to the gums surrounding the affected tooth
One of the greatest benefits of the root canal procedure is that you can retain your natural tooth rather than have it removed. You’ll want to treat your tooth infection as soon as possible to avoid the need for a tooth extraction. Tooth infection spreads very quickly, so you must treat it sooner rather than later.
Getting a Root Canal in Northborough, MA
The root canal procedure may take anywhere from one to three visits, depending on the severity of the infection. First, Dr. Gauthier will take diagnostic X-rays to evaluate the condition of the tooth and root canal. He may administer an anesthetic to help the patient relax and relieve discomfort.
We will make a small hole to allow access to the inside of the tooth. We also use specialized tools to remove the infected tissue and damaged nerve. Next, our dental staff will thoroughly clean and disinfect the root canal to avoid future infection. If you have an infection, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics and temporarily seal the tooth until it heals.
Once the infection is clear and the root canal is free of debris, we’ll fill the interior of the tooth with gutta-percha. This biocompatible material helps maintain the tooth’s structural integrity. Then we’ll seal the tooth back up.
Protecting the Tooth After Root Canal Therapy
Next, Dr. Gauthier will cover the tooth with either a dental filling or a dental crown to protect the root canal from future damage and add strength to the tooth. He uses CEREC technology to create and place the dental crown in just a single visit. The crown will be custom-fit and color-matched to blend in naturally with the rest of your smile.
After your root canal, we suggest you come in for regular dental cleanings and check-ups. This helps us make sure your teeth stay healthy and that no new infections develop. It’s also very important to keep up good oral hygiene at home to stop bacteria from building up around your treated tooth.
Root Canal FAQs
Do you have more questions about root canal treatment in Northborough, MA? We can help Continue reading to learn more about root canals and find answers to questions that patients frequently ask in our office.
Do root canals hurt?
The pain associated with a root canal comes from the infection in the tooth that causes inflammation and pressure. In fact, after a root canal procedure, many patients report immediate relief once we remove the infection from the tooth. Treating root canals is a great way to provide relief to patients who have deep tooth infections.
Should I get a root canal or have my tooth extracted?
Whenever possible, our Apex dentists strive to preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible. Root canals allow your dentist to remove diseased tissue without compromising the entire tooth. A dental crown can help stabilize the treated tooth. Tooth extraction treatment may be necessary if the dentist or endodontist has to remove too much of the tooth structure to restore oral health.
Can I still get an infection after a root canal?
If you experience severe pain lasting more than a few days, swelling visible inside or outside your mouth, or the return of your original painful symptoms, your infection may still be present. Contact your dentist or endodontist if the pain hasn’t gone away after a few days. We provide second opinions and restorative consultations.
What’s the recovery like after a root canal?
The average patient will likely experience mild discomfort and sensitivity for a few days after the procedure. In most cases, over-the-counter pain medication can manage the pain. You can resume normal activities immediately if you feel you can. You should also maintain good oral hygiene after a root canal.
Be gentle when you brush and floss around the treated area so you don’t irritate it while it’s still healing. If you notice any severe pain, swelling, or other unusual symptoms near the treated tooth, contact our office right away. We can check your tooth to make sure everything is healing properly.
What is the success rate of a root canal?
A root canal is a routine dental procedure with a 95% success rate. When an endodontist properly performs and follows after-care instructions, root canals relieve pain and infection. Make sure to visit our dentist regularly and take good care of your teeth after a root canal. We want to keep your tooth healthy and strong for a long time.
How long does a root canal take?
You can get root canal treatment in one or two appointments. Each should last about 1-2 hours. But if you have a complex case, your appointments could last longer. Our dentist will be able to advise you about this after a consultation.
Will my tooth feel normal after a root canal?
Yes, your tooth should feel normal after a root canal. Once the tooth heals, it will work just like any other tooth. The pain and infection that caused problems before the root canal will be gone, so you can chew and eat normally without discomfort.
Sometimes, a crown is placed on a tooth to protect it and help it stay strong. After everything heals, your tooth should feel and function like the rest of your teeth.
Can I still get cavities in a tooth that has had a root canal?
Yes, you can still get cavities in a tooth that has had a root canal. While the inside of the tooth is treated and sealed, the outer part of the tooth (the enamel) can still become damaged by cavities. You need to keep taking care of your teeth, even after a root canal.
To help prevent cavities, make sure to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups. This way, you can keep your teeth healthy and reduce the risk of getting cavities.
Save Your Teeth
Get root canal treatment in Northborough, MA. If you or a family member feel discomfort because of tooth decay, please call (508) 506-1691. You can also request an appointment with Dr. Gauthier online. We serve patients who need root canal treatment in Westborough, Shrewsbury, and Worcester.