Endodontic Dental Kingston PA – Root Canal Therapy

CALL US: (570) 288-6220 REQUEST APPOINTMENT

Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. To save the tooth, the pulp (living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed, and the space is filled with medicated dental materials that restore the tooth to full function.

Having a root canal is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that would otherwise die and require removal. Many patients believe removing a problem tooth is the solution, but extraction often leads to higher costs and problems for adjacent teeth.

Root canal treatment is highly successful and usually lasts a lifetime, although occasionally a tooth may need retreatment due to new infection.

Signs and Symptoms for Possible Root Canal Therapy

An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
Sensitivity to hot and cold
Severe toothache pain
Sometimes no symptoms are present
Swelling and/or tenderness

Reasons for Root Canal Therapy

Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth)
Infection or abscess has developed inside the tooth or at the root tip
Injury or trauma to the tooth

What Does Root Canal Therapy Involve?

Root canal therapy typically requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or an endodontist (root canal specialist).

While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (protective sheet) is placed around it to keep it dry. An opening is made on top of the tooth, and a series of root canal files are used to remove the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. Any decay is also removed with special dental instruments.

Once cleaned, the tooth is sealed with either a permanent filling or, if more appointments are needed, a temporary filling. At the following visit, the roots and cavity are filled and sealed with special materials, and a filling is placed to cover the opening.

Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy should have a crown (cap) placed to protect against breakage and restore full function.

After treatment, the tooth may remain sensitive, but this subsides as healing progresses. You will receive care instructions after each appointment. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help extend the life of your root canal treatment.

If you would like to schedule an appointment or have any questions, please contact us at our Kingston, PA dental practice today!

CALL US: (570) 288-6220 REQUEST APPOINTMENT