ROOT CANALS

When a tooth becomes infected, it is critical to remove the source of the infection before it spreads. Infection may be caused by deep decay in the tooth, or by dental trauma like a chip or crack. With root canal treatment, Dr. Todd can stop the infection and preserve your healthy, functional tooth.

Root canals often get a bad rap, or can be known as a painful dental procedure. But the good news is that root canals are actually a quick, minimally invasive procedure done under anesthesia. In modern dental care, root canals are essential to relieving pain from an infected tooth. With a root canal, you’ll have a healthier, more comfortable smile without having to lose the infected tooth.

Discover more about root canals or call our office to request an appointment.

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Man getting dental exam

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment removes the infected area inside of your tooth and allows the tooth to repair and heal. This treatment is typically completed in just one visit and will protect your health and your smile. Root canal treatment is the only way to save an infected tooth from extraction.

When you have a cavity removed, a dentist removes the tooth decay near the surface of the tooth. Root canals are a bit different as they address infection in the tooth pulp, which is in the inner layer of a tooth. 

During a root canal visit, Dr. Todd will use specialized tools to remove the infected pulp and replace it with a filling to ensure the infection doesn’t return.

Often, after a root canal, the tooth will be restored with a crown, so that further infection or damage cannot happen. This crown strengthens the tooth since part of the root has been removed.

Your Comfort is Our Concern

We know that the term “root canal” comes with a negative connotation and that many patients have anxiety surrounding the treatment. We assure you that your root canal treatment will be more comfortable than you think.

The purpose of a root canal is not to cause pain but to ease it. Infected teeth can create a world of discomfort and pain, but a root canal removes the infection and relieves suffering.

During your treatment, we will provide you with local anesthesia and dental sedation options. You should not feel much, if any, discomfort during the treatment. We will give you detailed instructions for recovery so that you can remain comfortable as you get back to total health.

Your Root Canal Appointment

When you have a root canal appointment at Butler Smiles Dental Care, we will answer any questions you have and talk to you about the step process. You can learn the basics of the treatment below:

Preparing the tooth

Dr. Todd will numb the mouth and protect the infected tooth with special dental-grade rubber to keep it dry. You can always tell us if you need more numbing medication or if there’s anything we can do to increase your comfort.

Removing the infection

We make an opening in the top of the tooth and remove the pulp, where the infection resides. We also clean out the root canals while shaping them. You should not be able to feel the sensation.

Protecting the tooth

Your dentist will fill the root canals with a biocompatible material to protect the tooth. We can place medication around the tooth to kill any lingering bacteria, and then place a temporary crown or filling on top of the tooth.

Following up to ensure the infection is gone

We will remove the temporary filling and check on our work. If the infection has been removed in its entirety, we can complete the treatment with a sealer paste and a final restoration.

After the root canal treatment, you won’t have to deal with the painful symptoms of an infected tooth. You’ll soon be able to eat and move your mouth normally without pain and sensitivity.

Relieve Pain with a Root Canal

With a root canal, Dr. Todd can save your tooth, so you don’t have to have a tooth extraction. This important procedure will have you feeling much better, and leave you free of persistent tooth pain. 

Whether it’s your first visit to our office or you’ve been a longtime patient, we want to assist you in improving your oral health. If you believe you may need a root canal treatment, contact our dentist for a consultation or to learn more about root canal therapy.

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