Root Canals
What are Root Canals?
A root canal is a procedure that involves taking out the entire pulp of a tooth. Each of your teeth has a pulp, which is often called the nerve. If this pulp becomes infected by decay or is damaged in any way, it will need to be removed. You will find that an infected pulp becomes painful until it is properly removed.
Why would a Root Canal be needed?
The main reason a root canal may be necessary is because a tooth has become infected by decay. If a tooth has broken severely, it might have exposed the crack fully, causing a lot of sensitivity and pain. In order to eliminate this pain, we recommend that the pulp be removed as soon as possible. This can even prevent an infection from developing as a result of leaving the pulp in place.
Who is a candidate for Root Canals?
The best way to determine if a root canal is needed is with an examination. We may take x-rays to better identify areas of decay or to see if a pulp has been impacted by a break or crack in the tooth. It is recommended that if you need a root canal, it be done as soon as possible to prevent problems. Our goal is to provide you with a healthy, pain-free smile as soon as possible.
What happens during the Root Canal procedure?
The process starts with local anesthetic, which is used to numb an area of the mouth. We then work to remove the decay from the tooth and take out the pulp. The canals of the tooth are cleaned thoroughly and filled so that they do not become infected. Once this is done, we will recommend crowning the tooth to keep it fully protected. The root canal procedure takes about an hour in our office and allows you to leave pain-free.
Signs you might need a root canal
It's not always obvious that a tooth needs treatment. Common signs include:
- Lingering pain when you bite down or eat something hot or cold
- A tooth that's become sensitive to pressure
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near a specific tooth
- A tooth that's visibly cracked, chipped, or discolored
- Pain that comes and goes, or a dull ache that won't fully resolve
If any of this sounds familiar, don't wait it out. Call our Stone Mountain office and we'll get you in to take a look.
We're here for patients across the area
We treat patients from Stone Mountain, Snellville, Lilburn, Tucker, Clarkston, and Redan, and we understand that no one wants to put off tooth pain. If you're dealing with discomfort, we'll do our best to see you quickly. Many patients are also nervous about root canals specifically. If that's you, ask us about our sedation dentistry options to help you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a root canal hurt?
With modern techniques and local anesthetic, most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure itself. Many describe it as similar to getting a filling. Some soreness afterward is normal and typically fades within a few days.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals are completed in about an hour, though this can vary depending on the tooth and how involved the infection is.
Will I need a crown after my root canal?
In most cases, yes. A crown protects the treated tooth and restores its strength, since a tooth that's had a root canal can become more brittle over time.
What happens if I ignore a tooth that needs a root canal?
The infection can spread, leading to more pain, a possible abscess, and eventually loss of the tooth. Treating it early is almost always simpler and more comfortable than waiting.
If you would like to learn more about root canals and how they're performed, call us today and we can help to answer any of your questions.