What is a root canal?
Root canals are the most common procedure at our endodontic studios. They’re generally a painless and quick procedure, similar to an appointment for a filling or crown. Also, most patients are relieved to know that root canals are meant to last a lifetime.
The procedure involves first numbing the tooth to ensure the procedure is painless. Then a protective shield is placed over the tooth to keep it clean and dry. Next, an opening is made through the crown and into the pulp chamber of the tooth. Using small instruments, the pulp is removed, and the tooth is reshaped. Then the canal is filled, sealed and a temporary filling is placed over the tooth. The last step is visiting your dentist, where a permanent crown or restoration will be placed over the tooth.
Cracked tooth
Fractures or cracks in teeth can be caused by anything from normal eating habits to grinding teeth. Fractures are classified into several different categories from minor (craze lines), which are superficial and usually only affect the appearance of the tooth, to split teeth or vertical root fractures, which would render a tooth non-salvageable. Patients who have the latter may experience pain while chewing, with or without temperature sensitivity. Sometimes patients may experience no pain at all. Our diagnostic technology will help determine if a cracked tooth can be saved based on the extent of the fracture.
Advanced Root Canal Treatment You Can Trust
A persistent toothache or sensitivity to hot and cold drinks might signal a deeper dental issue. Left untreated, these symptoms can lead to infections, swelling, or even tooth loss.
At Renovo Endodontic Studio, we specialize in advanced root canal treatments designed to alleviate pain, preserve your natural teeth, and restore oral health. Our skilled team provides personalized care in a welcoming environment to ensure every patient receives the attention they deserve.
Root Canal FAQs
Patients often have questions before scheduling a root canal. Knowing what to expect can help ease any concerns and prepare you for treatment.
Below, we address the most common questions about root canal treatment, including what happens during the procedure at Renovo Endodontic Studio, recovery, and long-term care.
What Exactly Does a Root Canal Do?
A root canal removes infection from inside a tooth and saves it from extraction. The pulp, or the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels, can become inflamed due to decay, cracks, or trauma.
After removing the infected tissue, your endodontist cleans and seals the inner canals to prevent future infection. This process saves your natural tooth and eliminates pain at its source.
How Long Does a Root Canal Last?
A properly treated tooth can last a lifetime with good oral care. Success rates for root canal therapy exceed 95% when followed by a permanent restoration, such as a crown.
Factors such as oral hygiene habits, timely crown placement, and regular dental checkups influence longevity. Most patients retain their treated teeth for decades without complications.
Is a Root Canal a Serious Surgery?
No, a standard root canal is not considered a surgical procedure. Most root canals are non-surgical treatments performed through the top of the tooth to remove infected pulp, similar to a deep filling.
However, there is some confusion because root canals involve drilling into the tooth and removing nerves and blood vessels, which can feel invasive. In rare cases, a surgical root canal (apicoectomy) may be necessary if the infection persists, requiring access through the gum and bone to remove the root tip.
Modern techniques, local anesthesia, and the precision of endodontists make the standard procedure routine and safe, with most patients resuming normal activities the same day.
Are There Risks or Dangers to Root Canals?
Yes, like any dental procedure, root canals carry some risks, but complications are rare. The treatment has been performed successfully for over a century, and modern tools like 3D imaging and dental microscopes help endodontists identify and address potential issues early.
Possible complications include persistent infection, a cracked root, or incomplete canal sealing. However, the greater risk is avoiding treatment altogether, which can lead to abscesses, bone loss, or tooth loss.
Overall, root canals are considered very safe, and most patients experience long-term relief and preserved natural teeth.
Can You Eat After a Root Canal?
Yes, you can eat once the anesthesia-induced numbness wears off, usually within a few hours. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth for the first day or two.
Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods until your permanent crown is placed. Most patients resume their regular diet within a week.
How Painful Is a Root Canal?
Most patients report feeling little to no pain during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. The discomfort is often compared to getting a standard filling.
Some soreness or mild sensitivity may occur for a few days afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. The procedure alleviates severe pain caused by infection.
How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal?
You may need a root canal if you have persistent tooth pain or signs of pulp infection. Common symptoms include prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when chewing or biting, swelling in the gums, darkening of the tooth, or a recurring pimple on the gum near the affected tooth.
Only a dental exam with X-rays can confirm whether root canal therapy is necessary. If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to schedule an evaluation promptly to prevent further complications.
What Happens If I Delay Treatment?
Delaying a root canal allows the infection to spread beyond the tooth. This can lead to abscess formation, bone loss, and potential tooth loss.
Untreated infections may also spread to other parts of the body, leading to more serious health complications. Early treatment preserves your tooth and prevents these complications.
How Should I Prepare for a Root Canal?
Preparing for a root canal is simple and requires minimal changes. To ensure a smooth procedure, eat a regular meal beforehand, as you will be numb for a few hours afterward. Inform your endodontist about any medications or health conditions, and avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before treatment.
Bring any questions you have so your care team can address them before the procedure begins. These small steps help make the treatment comfortable and efficient.
Will I Need a Crown After My Root Canal?
Yes, most teeth need a crown after a root canal, especially molars and premolars that handle heavy chewing forces. The crown protects the treated tooth from fracture and restores its full function.
Your endodontist will place a temporary filling first, and your general dentist will fit the permanent crown. Getting the crown promptly is key to the long-term success of your treatment.
