Astoria Root Canal Therapy
Root canals have developed a bad reputation over the years. Most patients associate the need for root canal therapy with pain and discomfort. If you’ve recently been informed you need a root canal, the ED Family Dental team has good news for you – a root canal may actually relieve toothache pain! These restorative treatments allow us to remove damaged tooth structure, and they can actually save teeth that would otherwise need to be removed. If you need a root canal, take a deep breath. Then, give our Astoria dentistry team a call. We’ll schedule an appointment for you to come in to see us as soon as possible, so you don’t have to deal with the pain and sensitivity that proceeds these treatments for one second longer than you have to.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure that removes damaged tissue that has accessed the innermost layer of the tooth. Called pulp, this interior layer is where the tooth’s nerve is housed. When decay or damaged parts of the tooth are able to access the nerve, patients experience the tooth pain or sensitivity that gives root canals a bad name. By removing and replacing this pulp and nerve tissue, we save the tooth and relieve toothache pain almost immediately.
How Will I Know I Need a Root Canal?
The only way to know for certain that you need a root canal is to visit our office for a consultation. We do see many patients in need of a root canal on an emergency basis, so please call our office if you experience any of the following warning signs:
- Severe toothache centered around an individual tooth
- Sensitivity to changes in temperature that lingers
- Darkening or discoloration of a single tooth
- Inflammation or infection in the soft tissue around a single tooth
How are Root Canals Performed?
Root canals are straightforward procedures. We begin by numbing the area around your damaged tooth to make sure you’re completely comfortable. Then, we drill a small hole from the top of your tooth into the pulp. Next, a series of files are used to remove the damaged tissues and any infection. In some cases, we need to complete your root canal until after you’ve received a course of antibiotics. This reduces the risk of reinfection or further damage. Once your tooth is free of infection and damaged tissue, we refill the pulp layer with a biocompatible substance. We reseal the access hole, and typically, we recommend placing a dental crown to protect the repaired tooth.
What Happens After Root Canal Therapy?
Following root canal therapy, you will likely experience significant relief from the toothache and sensitivity you experienced before we got started. You may experience some swelling or inflammation around the treated tooth, but in a few days, you should be able to go right back to speaking, chewing, and smiling with complete confidence thanks to your newly restored smile. If you have a ceramic or porcelain dental crown placed to protect the treated tooth, make sure to use soft bristled toothbrushes and minimally abrasive toothpaste to avoid excessive dental wear.