What a Root Canal Involves
When the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed – due to deep decay, a crack, or trauma – root canal treatment removes the infected tissue, cleans and shapes the canals inside the root, and seals them to prevent reinfection. Dr. Velkovski uses CBCT cone beam imaging to map the root anatomy before treatment begins, which is especially important for complex cases. The tooth is then restored – often with a same-day CEREC crown – to protect the treated structure.
What to Expect During and After
The tooth is fully numbed with local anesthesia before Dr. Velkovski begins. You will feel pressure but should not feel pain during the procedure. Most root canals are completed in a single appointment of 60 to 90 minutes. Some soreness and sensitivity for a few days after treatment is normal and managed with over-the-counter pain relievers in most cases. Once the crown is placed, the tooth functions normally – most patients forget which tooth was treated within a matter of weeks.
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Root Canals FAQ's
What is a root canal?
Underneath your tooth’s outer enamel and within the dentin is an area of soft tissue called the pulp, which carries the tooth’s nerves, veins, arteries, and lymph vessels. Root canals are very small, thin divisions that branch off from the top pulp chamber down to the tip of the root. A tooth has at least one but no more than four root canals.
Why does a toothache cause pain?
When the pulp becomes infected due to a deep cavity or fracture that allows bacteria to seep in, or injury due to trauma, it can die. Damaged or dead pulp causes increased blood flow, and this pressure cannot be relieved from inside the tooth. Pain is present when biting down, chewing, or applying hot or cold foods and drinks.
Why do I need root canal treatment?
Because the tooth will not heal by itself. Without treatment, infection will spread, bone around the tooth will begin to degenerate, and the tooth may fall out. The pain gets worse until it forces you to seek emergency dental attention. The only alternative is usually extraction of the tooth, which can cause surrounding teeth to shift crookedly, resulting in a bad bite. Though an extraction is cheaper, the missing tooth requires an implant or a bridge, which can be more expensive than root canal therapy. If you have the choice, it’s always best to keep your original teeth.
What is involved in root canal treatment?
First, we will probably give a local anesthetic to numb the area. We place a rubber sheet (dental dam) around the tooth to isolate it. Next, we create a hole to enter the crown and remove any affected tissue. We may also insert medication into the area to help fight bacteria. Depending on the condition of the tooth, we’ll temporarily seal the tooth to guard against recontamination, or the tooth may be left open to drain, or we may go right ahead and fill the canals. If we use a temporary filling, we will typically remove it at the next visit and the canal(s) will be filled. Once filled, we permanently seal the tooth and place a porcelain crown to strengthen tooth structure and improve appearance.
What happens after treatment?
Swelling may cause discomfort for a few days, which can be controlled by an over-the-counter pain killer. A follow-up exam can monitor tissue healing. From this point, brush and floss regularly, avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth and see your dentist regularly.
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