Frequently Asked Endodontics Questions (FAQ)
What is endodontics?
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving diagnosis and treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside channel or “root canal” contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, trauma, periodontal disease, tooth
fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, Dr.
Ellis removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further inflammation and infection. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.
Will my root canal hurt?
We are very well-versed in local anesthesia techniques to get you completely numb! Most patients tell us that they did not feel a thing. In fact, about half of our patients fall asleep during the procedure. And, if you say you feel something, we will always stop immediately and address this right away!
Additionally, we have nitrous oxide gas (laughing gas) and medications you can take before your visit to help you sleep through the procedure. So, if you are anxious about the procedure, we understand and have ways to help you through it comfortably and easily.
How long will my root canal procedure take?
While every case is unique, most cases can be completed in about an hour. If your tooth requires multiple visits, we will keep your appointment time to about 1 hour on the first visit and 30 minutes on the second visit.
What can I expect to feel after treatment?
Well, first of all, you will be very pleased about what you don’t feel- no more sensitivity to hot or cold in that tooth ever again! If you’ve been avoiding ice cream, iced tea or your morning cup of coffee, start enjoying those again-right away!
You will have several days where the tooth is very sore to pressure and touch. During this time, Dr. Ellis will often have you take medications like Advil, Aleve or Tylenol. In special circumstances, you may be prescribed a stronger medication to keep you comfortable during the first days after treatment. Usually after several days, you will no longer require medication as the tissues around the tooth begin to heal. It usually takes 2-3 weeks for the healing to be completed so that you are chewing on the tooth without thinking about it. This is the time to get your new restoration placed at your dentist’s office!
I’m worried about x-rays. Should I be?
No. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontic treatment, we use an advanced computerized system, called digital radiography, which reduces radiation up to 90 percent lower than those of conventional dental x-ray machinery. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to your general dentist via e-mail. And remember, even conventional dental x-rays use very, very low doses of radiation.
What about infection control?
Again, there’s no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.
What happens after my root canal is finished?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a report with before and after radiographs will be sent to your restorative dentist. In most cases, you will need to contact your dentist’s office for a restoration to be placed within a few weeks of root canal completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to best protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond.