FAQs About Root Canals

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FAQs About Root Canals

At Complete Family Dentistry in Waukesha, Drs. Joel Jahimiak, Cathleen Raz, and Kencra Loch perform root canal therapy on teeth root canalsthreatened by oral trauma, repeated restorations, or infection. Unfortunately, many patients don't know what a root canal entails even though it's one of the most reliable and pain-relieving restorative services available. Read here answers to frequently asked questions about root canal therapy and how it may help you preserve a sick tooth.

What does a root canal involve?

Also called endodontic therapy, a root canal treatment accesses a tooth's interior pulp chamber and root canals which occupy the center of each root. Your dentist accesses these canals and removes the soft pulp (which contains connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves). Then, he or she caps the tooth with a custom-made porcelain crown to protect and support it.

Is root canal therapy painful?

The American Association of Endodontists maintains that root canal therapy in Waukesha is no more uncomfortable than getting a cavity filled. Your dentist anesthetizes the tooth with a local pain shot so the area is totally numb. Afterwards, the tooth will feel sore for a few days; so a softer diet and over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen helps soothe that.

Why would I need a root canal?

Most people get root canals because of dental abscess with its throbbing toothache, drainage, bad breath and extreme dental sensitivity. Dr. Jahimiak, Dr. Raz, or Dr. Loch may prescribe a course of antibiotics if they find your tooth is infected. Also, teeth compromised by oral trauma, deep decay, and numerous dental fillings benefit from root canal therapy.

Won't the infection come back?

As part of endodontic treatment, your dentist fills the tooth and its root canals with a natural putty called gutta-percha. This sealant protects against bacterial invasion and along with a porcelain crown, strengthens the tooth.

Are root canals successful?

Endodontics are highly successful, saving teeth from extraction and sparing patients substantial pain. However, it also says that postponing a recommended root canal treatment increases the chance of tooth failure. Infection can spread to the bone, and tooth structure continues to weaken over time, increasing the chances of irretrievable fracture. In other words, if your dentist says you need root canal therapy, get it right away, and your tooth should last indefinitely.

Do you have more questions?

If you believe a root canal is in your future, please contact Complete Family Dentistry right away for a personalized consultation with one of our expert dentists. He or she will answer all your questions thoroughly and put your mind at ease. Call our office in Waukesha, WI, at (262) 549-6850.

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