Root canals are common and effective procedures for resolving pain and saving teeth. An endodontist specialist has advanced training in root canal treatment and will ensure that your procedure is pain- and stress-free.
If you need a root canal, your tooth’s inner pulp may have an infection or damage. An endodontist will remove the infected inner pulp and seal the tooth to prevent future problems.
Most root canals follow this process:
- Either your dentist or an endodontist specialist will diagnose the problem inside the tooth using an x-ray.
- At your root canal appointment, the endodontist will numb the area with a local anesthesia. A piece of rubber prevents the rest of your mouth from exposure to bacteria.
- The endodontist will access your tooth through a small hole in the top of your tooth.
- The inside of the tooth, called the inner pulp, is cleaned out with special tools and an antiseptic solution, removing all bacteria and infection.
- The endodontist will fill the root canals and seal the tooth.
- You will usually return to your dentist for a dental crown or other tooth restoration.
Depending on your situation, a root canal takes about an hour to complete, not including the dental crown restoration. If the infection is chronic or the canals are difficult to reach, additional visits may be necessary.