Everyone wants to keep their teeth! At Seaport Family Dentistry, we do everything within our power to make sure that you do.
In the case that you have a strong tooth with an infected nerve, you can choose to either remove the problematic tooth or remove the nerve of that tooth. Because we also want you to keep your teeth, we often suggest root canal therapy.
How Does Root Canal Therapy Work?
During root canal therapy, our team removes the infected nerve and places a crown. This allows you to retain the strength and the integrity of your original tooth. Your tooth will no longer have the infected nerve, and it will still remain and operate normally!
There is more good news! By combining our technologies here at Seaport Family Dentistry, we are able to save you a lot of time! This procedure used to require multiple visits, but sometimes we are able to complete your root canal treatment and have your crown placed – all in a single visit!
Do you have an infected nerve? Does it require root canal therapy?
Choose Seaport Family Dentistry and keep your teeth!
Are root canals painful?
Most patients are surprised by how similar to a dental filling a root canal feels. We always numb the area with local anesthetic before starting, and we also offer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation if you feel anxious or want extra relaxation. These options can help you stay calm while we treat the infection and clean the tooth. Post-treatment, you may feel mild soreness, but it usually improves within a day or two and can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long do root canals last?
A root canal can last many years, and in most cases, it helps save the tooth for a lifetime. Success depends on factors like the tooth’s condition, proper restoration, and good home care. After the procedure, we will place a durable, permanent crown right away, which reduces the risk of potential complications. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits also play an important role in helping your treated tooth stay healthy long-term.
Is it better to pull a tooth or get a root canal?
In most cases, saving the natural tooth with a root canal is the better option. Keeping your tooth helps maintain your bite, prevents shifting, and avoids the need for future replacements like implants or bridges. A root canal removes infection while preserving the tooth’s structure. Extraction may be considered when a tooth is severely damaged, but preserving natural teeth is generally healthier and more cost-effective over time.
What is the recovery process after a root canal?
Recovery after a root canal is usually quick. Most patients return to normal activities the same day. You may have mild tenderness for a short time, especially when chewing, but this typically improves within 24–48 hours. We recommend eating soft foods at first and avoiding chewing on the treated side until the soreness subsides. Should you have any questions or concerns at any time, feel free to contact us for assistance.