General Dentistry

Root Canal Therapy

A root canal may be necessary when a deep cavity reaches the pulp causing it to become infected.  Dr. Weeks will remove the tooth’s infected pulp and flush the cavity of any contaminates. After cleaning out the infection, the canal will be filled to prevent any further infection.  Usually, a crown is recommended to cover and restore the tooth’s shape and function after a root canal. Endo treated teeth are usually more brittle and that’s why a crown or full coverage is recommended.

Although the thought of a root canal can be quite scary for a patient, there is no need to worry. Millions of root canals and subsequently millions of teeth are treated and saved this way every year. Modern root canals are very similar to routine fillings. Local anesthesia makes the process painless and patients are back on their feet in no time with a much healthier mouth.

What to expect during this service?

A root canal can usually be completed in one or two office visits. Root canals can be performed by a general dentist or an Endodontist (root canal specialist). An Endodontist is a specialist focusing on the causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries in the dental pulp or the nerve of the tooth.  We are fortunate to have Dr. Howard Weeks, who has experience in endodontics and professional relationships with area Endodontic specialists. He has experience with premolars and anterior teeth, but he will assess your case and refer as needed.

Your tooth may be sensitive for a few days post-procedure. This is completely normal and can usually be treated with over the counter medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve). Most patients can resume normal activities the following day.