A lot of patients get nervous when they hear the words “root canal,”. But the truth is, it’s not as scary as it sounds. In fact, root canal therapy is one of the best ways to save a natural tooth and protect your smile from further damage. Dr. Morgan Chambers and her team at Complete Dentistry for All Ages are here to make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
We care about your comfort and long-term dental health. Dr. Chambers and our staff will ensure you are comfortable during the treatment. The endodontic procedure is typically no more painful than getting a dental filling.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure that removes infected pulp or damaged tissue from inside a tooth. Once the pulp is removed, Dr. Chambers cleans the inside of the tooth and fills it with a safe material. Then she seals it up to prevent future infections.
Root canals are part of endodontics, which focuses on the dental pulp and tooth roots. Treating infected tissue within a tooth can stop toothaches. In most cases, diseased tissue is the source of tooth pain.
Our root canal treatment process relieves the pain while restoring the tooth. It will also prevent the infection from spreading to your other teeth, gums, and even other parts of your body. In short, a root canal saves your tooth and helps you avoid bigger dental issues down the road.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect during your root canal:
- Getting Numb: Dr. Chambers will start by numbing the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic so you won’t feel a thing. She’ll place a small rubber sheet around the tooth to keep the area dry and comfortable.
- Cleaning Out the Tooth: Next, she’ll make a tiny opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp and root canal system. She’ll carefully remove the damaged tissue, clean out any debris, and disinfect the area using special tools.
- Filling and Sealing: Once the inside of the tooth is clean, Dr. Chambers will fill it with a special material. This will keep it strong and seal it to prevent future infections.
What Happens After the Procedure?
After your root canal, Dr. Chambers may prescribe antibiotics to help the area heal and prevent any lingering infection. We might also schedule you for a follow-up visit to make sure everything is healing properly.
If the tooth is severely damaged, she may recommend adding a dental crown. A crown is a protective cap that covers the tooth to make it stronger and more durable. It also helps the tooth blend in with your smile, so no one will know you’ve had work done.
If it’s not possible to save the tooth, Dr. Chambers might suggest removing it. We can replace it with a dental implant if need be. Implants look and feel like natural teeth and are a great option for restoring your smile after a root canal. Learn more about the benefits of dental implants.
Why It’s Important to Treat Cavities Early
Unaddressed cavities are one of the most common dental problems, and they’re a big reason people end up needing root canals. Believe it or not, around 92% of adults have had at least one cavity. Many don’t even know they have one until it’s too late.
Cavities can form between your regular dental visits, which is why it’s so important to stay on top of checkups. Dr. Chambers and her team can catch cavities early before they turn into bigger problems, like infections or toothaches.
If you’re dealing with tooth pain or think you might need a root canal, don’t wait. Call Dr. Morgan Chambers and our team at Complete Dentistry for All Ages in Lexington, KY, today. We’ll help get your smile back on track and keep your teeth healthy for years.
Root Canal FAQs
If you’re curious about root canals, we’ve got you covered! Here are some common questions that patients ask about this treatment at our Lexington, KY, dental office:
What’s a Cavity?
A cavity is basically a small hole in your tooth caused by tooth decay. It happens when sugars in your mouth mix with plaque, creating acids that wear down your enamel. The damage can reach the inner layers of the tooth without treatment, so they will eventually infect the root canal and cause pain. If you’re noticing signs like sensitivity or tooth pain, give us a call.
How Can I Avoid Cavities?
The best way to avoid cavities is with good oral hygiene. Here’s what to do:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily to clean between your teeth and along the gum line.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary or starchy snacks.
- Visit your dentist for cleanings and checkups every six months.
These small steps can make a big difference in keeping your teeth healthy.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
Not at all! Thanks to modern tools and techniques, root canals are about as comfortable as getting a filling. We’ll use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Most patients are surprised at how easy it is.
Can I Drive After a Root Canal?
If you didn’t opt for sedation, you’ll be good to drive yourself home after the procedure. But if you chose sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home. It’s best to wait until the effects of the sedation have completely worn off before getting behind the wheel.
Do I Have to Get Sedation for a Root Canal?
Sedation isn’t a must, but it’s always an option if you’re feeling nervous or anxious. Most patients just need a local anesthetic to numb the area, but we have options if you’d prefer to feel more relaxed. We can offer mild sedation, like laughing gas, or something stronger if you need it. We’ll help you decide what works best for you.
What Happens if I Skip a Root Canal?
The infection in your tooth can spread if you don’t get a root canal when you need one. This could lead to:
- Severe pain and swelling
- An abscess (a painful, pus-filled pocket)
- Tooth loss
- Health issues as the infection spreads to other parts of your body
A root canal can save your tooth and protect your overall health, so it’s definitely worth getting it taken care of.
Are There Alternatives to a Root Canal?
If a root canal isn’t an option, we may need to remove the tooth. In that case, we can replace it with a dental implant to restore your smile. If the tooth is still in decent shape but needs extra strength, we might recommend a dental crown. Crowns protect the tooth and help prevent further damage.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
The cost of a root canal depends on:
- How many teeth need treatment
- Whether you’ll need a crown afterward
- Your insurance coverage
Most insurance plans cover at least part of the cost. We accept all major insurance plans to help make treatment affordable.
Ready to Save Your Tooth?
Whether you’re trying to prevent cavities or need a root canal, we’re here to help. Dr. Chambers and our team in Lexington, KY can restore your tooth and work with your insurance to keep costs manageable. Give us a call at 859-251-3809. You can also schedule an appointment online today.