What is Root Canal Therapy?
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, it’s best to make a dental appointment right away. Tooth decay starts out small, but it can lead to severe pain and infection if it’s left untreated. Root canal therapy is designed to relieve your tooth pain, eliminate the infection, and save your tooth. It can also save your tooth from future infections.
When Will I Need a Root Canal?
Tooth pain is never fun, and no dental patient likes to hear the phrase “root canal.” But the root canal process is actually quite simple and meant to be pain-free. Dr. Aimee Kraft uses the latest technology for successful root canal procedures, so your experience will be as painless as possible.
Dr. Kraft can advise you on whether or not you need a root canal. She may perform the procedure herself, or she may send you to a wonderful group of Endodontists. After the procedure, you’ll return to Dr. Kraft’s office for your restoration and crown.
Common symptoms of a decaying or infected tooth are:
- Severe tooth pain
- A toothache that extends to the jaw, ears, or neck
- Swelling of the gums
- Sensitivity when biting and chewing
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks
- Face swelling
- Swollen lymph nodes
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call our office and schedule an appointment right away.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
At the beginning of your root canal procedure, Dr. Kraft or your Endodontist will numb your affected tooth and the area around it with a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable. Once the area is numb, a dental dam will be placed in your mouth to isolate the area.
Next, Dr. Kraft or the Endodontist will drill through the tooth to gain access to the roots. The damaged tissue and decay from inside your tooth is then removed, and the area will be thoroughly cleaned. Next, the space will be filled with a material that protects the tooth from future infections and additional damage. We’ll then place a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready.
When your dental crown is ready, you’ll return to Dr. Kraft’s office for a second visit. The crown is placed around the treated tooth to add strength and stability. This will not only protect your tooth but also preserve your smile for years to come.
What is Root Canal Aftercare Like?
Dr. Kraft will go over all necessary root canal aftercare with you at your appointment. If you have a severe tooth infection, you may be sent home with a prescription for antibiotics. While it’s normal to experience some discomfort for a few days after the procedure, you should not be in pain. Over-the-counter pain medications should alleviate any discomfort.
Root Canal Therapy with Dr. Aimee Kraft
If you’re experiencing tooth pain and discomfort, Dr. Kraft and our team of experts can help with root canal therapy. This routine treatment has helped patients overcome oral health pain and tooth decay for years. Simply give our office a call at (718) 625-6629 and make an appointment today.
Root Canal Q & A
What is a root canal procedure?
Root canal therapy is a procedure designed to treat teeth when the decay has become extensive. Dr. Kraft recommends this procedure when the decay exceeded the limits of what a filing can repair. Root canal therapy works by removing the decay and damaged tissue from the roots of your tooth. After the procedure, your tooth will not be infected, and you should not experience any more sensitivity or pain.
What happens during the procedure?
At the beginning of the procedure, Dr. Kraft will start by numbing your tooth and the area around it with a local anesthetic so you can stay comfortable during treatment. Once you’re numb, Dr. Kraft will remove the damaged tissue and decay from the inside of your tooth. Once your root is, Dr. Kraft will fill the space with a material that protects it from future infection and additional damage. It is common for these teeth to need a crown for protection and structural support.
Is the treatment painful?
Damaged teeth are more sensitive, and you may already be experiencing pain in your tooth before the procedure. Dr. Kraft uses local anesthetics to prevent you from feeling any pain during root canal therapy. After the procedure, the treated area may be a little sore. You can relieve the soreness with over-the-counter pain relief in most cases.
Is root canal therapy better than having the tooth extracted?
Patients with painful or damaged teeth often wonder whether they should just have the teeth pulled. Missing teeth can lead to other problems. It is preferred to save the tooth with root canal therapy if possible. Having a root canal instead of an extraction prevents bone loss in your jaw, bite problems, and shifting of your teeth.