No Need for Alarm

If you’re told that a tooth requires a root canal procedure, there’s no need to worry. Today, root canals are as routine and comfortable as getting a dental filling. This procedure is typically the best way to relieve toothache pain, save a damaged tooth, and preserve your natural smile.

At Dental Associates of North Smithfield, we use the latest technology to provide precise and gentle care, helping patients maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. Patient care and comfort are our top priorities, ensuring your oral health is in the best hands.

Preserving Your Natural Smile

With a demonstrated success rate of over 90%, root canal procedures are the most effective way to save and retain a tooth severely compromised by decay or injury. Root canal therapy supports your oral health and overall well-being by preserving your natural dentition. In the United States alone, root canals are performed almost 41,000 times daily and close to 15 million times per year.

Why You Might Need Root Canal Therapy

Teeth are more than just their hard outer surfaces; inside each tooth is a central chamber containing connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels, collectively known as the dental pulp. The dental pulp helps your tooth grow and mature before it emerges and continues to nourish and keep it vital.

When a tooth needs a root canal, it’s because the dental pulp has become irreversibly damaged or has died. If enough tooth structure remains and there’s good bone support, you do not need an extraction. A fully developed tooth can remain functional without the dental pulp. Here are some warning signs that you might need root canal therapy:

• Persistent Pain: Dental pain, especially at night, could indicate decay or damage affecting the tooth's inner tissues.

• Temperature Sensitivity: Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks may signal an inflamed or non-vital dental pulp.

• Discomfort with Pressure: Pain when biting or chewing can indicate irreversible damage or infection.

• Discolored Tooth: A darkened tooth often means the inner tissues have been compromised.

• Chipped or Cracked Tooth: Injuries that chip or fracture a tooth can also damage the dental pulp.

• Swelling: Swelling around a tooth can indicate an infection needing prompt care.

• Tooth Mobility: Damage from infection can cause tooth mobility, which root canal therapy can often resolve.

Importance of Timely Care

Prompt evaluation and care are crucial. Delaying a root canal increases the risk of more severe symptoms and broader health issues. Even if a tooth shows no symptoms, it may still need a root canal if diagnosed during a routine exam.

Root Canal Procedure

Modern root canal procedures are often as comfortable as getting a routine filling. Some root canals can be completed in one visit, while others may require multiple appointments. During the procedure, the dentist removes the diseased dental pulp, cleans the internal portion of the tooth, and fills the canals with a biocompatible material. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, with additional sedation options available to reduce anxiety.

Post-Procedure Care

After a root canal procedure, you might experience:

• Numbness: Avoid biting or chewing until the anesthetic wears off.

• Post-Procedure Discomfort: Mild to moderate discomfort may occur but should subside within days. Over-the-counter pain medication can help.

• Antibiotics: If prescribed, complete the course to prevent or treat infection.

• Protect the Tooth: Be mindful of the treated tooth until a permanent restoration is placed to avoid fractures.

Long-Term Care

To rebuild the strength of a treated tooth, it needs a permanent crown or suitable restoration. With proper maintenance and care, a treated tooth can last a lifetime.

At Dental Associates of North Smithfield, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality care. If you have any concerns or symptoms following your procedure, contact our office for prompt attention and care.