Root Canal Treatment
Pain Relief and Tooth Preservation
At Southeastern Dental Care, we understand that the thought of a root canal may seem intimidating, but with modern techniques and technology, it’s a highly effective, virtually painless procedure for saving damaged teeth and relieving discomfort. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, a root canal could be the key to restoring your oral health and saving your natural tooth. Schedule your appointment by calling (508) 947-5717 today.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat infected or damaged tooth pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When this pulp becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause significant pain and, if left untreated, can lead to further dental complications.
Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent reinfection, ultimately saving the tooth from extraction. This restorative treatment is one of many comprehensive oral health services we provide at our Lakeville practice.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
You may need a root canal if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Severe Tooth Pain
Persistent pain, especially when biting or applying pressure, can indicate an infection in the tooth pulp.
Sensitivity to Temperature
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks may signal that the tooth’s pulp is infected or damaged.
Swelling and Tenderness
Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth may point to an infection that requires root canal treatment.
Tooth Discoloration
Darkening or discoloration of the tooth could indicate internal damage or decay that needs to be addressed with a root canal.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Our emergency dental care services are available to help relieve your pain quickly.
The Root Canal Procedure at Southeastern Dental Care
At Southeastern Dental Care, we strive to make the root canal process as straightforward and comfortable as possible in our home-like setting. Here’s what you can expect:
Initial Consultation
Dr. Bui will evaluate your symptoms, take X-rays if necessary using our state-of-the-art dental technology, and discuss your treatment options, including whether a root canal is the best solution.
Comfortable Anesthesia
We use local anesthesia to ensure the affected area is fully numb, making the procedure painless and comfortable. Our experienced team focuses on your comfort throughout the process.
Precise Access and Cleaning
Dr. Bui will create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. She will then carefully remove the damaged tissue, clean and disinfect the tooth, and prepare it for sealing.
Professional Filling and Sealing
The tooth is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, and the opening is sealed to prevent further infection.
Tooth Restoration
Depending on the extent of the damage, a dental crown may be placed to strengthen and restore the tooth’s function and appearance. We offer Same-Day CEREC Crowns for your convenience.
Are Root Canals Painful?
Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but modern dental technology has made them far more comfortable. At Southeastern Dental Care, we use the latest anesthesia techniques and advanced dental tools to ensure your procedure is virtually pain-free.
Modern Comfort and Precision
We prioritize your comfort and the precision of your treatment. With advanced dental instruments, such as rotary tools and digital imaging, Dr. Bui ensures your root canal is performed with the utmost care. Local anesthesia will minimize any discomfort, and many patients feel immediate relief from their tooth pain after the procedure is completed.
Our Solea laser dentistry technology may also be utilized to enhance your comfort and treatment precision.
Why Choose Southeastern Dental Care for Root Canals?
At Southeastern Dental Care, we are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care in our comfortable, homelike environment. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced Provider: Dr. Minh-Phuong Bui provides expert root canal treatment with gentle, personalized care
- State-of-the-Art Technology: Advanced equipment including digital imaging and Solea laser dentistry
- Homelike Atmosphere: Our office in a house creates a relaxing, non-clinical environment
- Insurance Friendly: We accept many insurance plans and handle claim filing for you
- Flexible Financing: CareCredit options make treatment affordable
- Same-Day Crowns: CEREC technology allows for crown placement in a single visit
- One-on-One Attention: Personalized care from our experienced team
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
Why do I need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if you have deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, a cracked tooth, or trauma that has damaged the tooth’s pulp. Signs include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity, and swelling.
Does a root canal hurt?
Modern root canal procedures are typically painless due to local anesthesia and advanced techniques. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during treatment, though mild soreness may occur afterward.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals can be completed in 1-2 appointments, each lasting 60-90 minutes. Complex cases involving multiple roots or complications may require additional visits. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs.
What happens after a root canal?
After treatment, you’ll likely need a crown to protect the weakened tooth structure. We can often provide Same-Day CEREC Crowns for your convenience. You may experience mild discomfort for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?
The main alternative is tooth extraction followed by replacement with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture. However, saving your natural tooth with a root canal is usually the preferred option when possible.
Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect you may need a root canal, don’t wait to seek treatment. At Southeastern Dental Care, we are here to help relieve your discomfort and restore your smile with expert care in our warm, welcoming environment. Call (508) 947-5717 today to schedule your appointment!