Root canal therapy is used to treat a tooth when the dental pulp inside it has become inflamed, infected or significantly damaged. At University Suburban Dental, our dentist provides root canal therapy in South Euclid, Ohio, with the goal of removing the affected tissue, relieving the source of the problem and preserving the natural tooth whenever appropriate.
Call 216-381-6521 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Lexi Plucinsky if you have persistent tooth pain, sensitivity or another concern that may require root canal treatment.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a type of endodontic treatment that removes damaged or infected pulp tissue from inside a tooth. The interior of the tooth is then cleaned, shaped and sealed so the tooth can be restored and continue functioning.
Root canal treatment may allow Dr. Plucinsky to preserve a natural tooth that might otherwise become too damaged to keep.
Why Would I Need a Root Canal?
The pulp inside a tooth can become inflamed or infected when bacteria or damage reach the inner tissues. This may happen because of deep decay, cracks, fractures, trauma or other dental problems.
A root canal may be considered when there is:
- Deep tooth decay affecting the pulp
- Infection inside the tooth
- A cracked or fractured tooth involving the pulp
- Trauma that has damaged the inner tooth
- Persistent symptoms associated with pulp inflammation or infection
Dr. Plucinsky will examine the tooth and determine whether root canal therapy or another treatment is appropriate.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy
Symptoms involving the dental pulp can vary. Some teeth cause significant discomfort, while others may have less obvious signs.
Possible symptoms may include:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swelling near the affected tooth
- Tenderness in the surrounding gums
- A tooth that has become cracked, damaged or unusually discolored
These symptoms can have several possible causes, so an examination is needed before determining whether a root canal is necessary.
What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?
During root canal therapy, Dr. Plucinsky accesses the inside of the tooth and removes the affected pulp tissue. The internal space is then carefully cleaned, shaped and filled with an appropriate endodontic material.
The process may include:
- Examining the tooth and reviewing diagnostic images
- Providing local anesthesia for comfort
- Accessing the pulp chamber and root canals
- Removing damaged or infected tissue
- Cleaning and shaping the internal spaces
- Filling and sealing the treated canals
- Restoring the tooth after treatment
The exact procedure and number of visits depend on the condition of the tooth and your individual treatment plan.
Will I Need a Dental Crown After a Root Canal?
Many teeth need additional protection after root canal therapy, especially back teeth that absorb greater chewing forces or teeth that have lost a significant amount of structure.
In these situations, Dr. Plucinsky may recommend a dental crown to cover and protect the treated tooth. Other restorations may be appropriate depending on how much healthy tooth structure remains.
Root Canal Therapy vs. Tooth Extraction
When a tooth can be predictably restored, root canal therapy may allow the natural tooth to remain in place rather than being removed.
However, not every tooth can be saved. If the tooth is too severely damaged, fractured or otherwise unable to be restored, a tooth extraction may need to be considered.
Dr. Plucinsky will explain the condition of the tooth and help you understand the available options before treatment.
Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?
Local anesthesia is used to help keep you comfortable during treatment. Many patients seek root canal care because the tooth is already painful, and treatment is intended to address the underlying problem inside the tooth.
Your experience can vary depending on the condition of the tooth and the extent of inflammation or infection. Our team will explain what to expect and provide instructions for managing discomfort after treatment.
How Long Does Root Canal Therapy Take?
The amount of time needed depends on the tooth being treated and the complexity of the root canal system. Some treatments may be completed in one appointment, while others may require more than one visit.
Dr. Plucinsky can provide a more personalized treatment timeline after evaluating the tooth.
What Should I Expect After a Root Canal?
Some tenderness or sensitivity may occur after treatment as the surrounding tissues recover. Follow the instructions provided by our team and avoid placing excessive pressure on the tooth until the recommended restoration has been completed.
If you develop increasing pain, swelling or another concern after treatment, contact our office so the area can be evaluated.
Root Canal Therapy and Restorative Dentistry
Root canal therapy treats the inside of the tooth, but restoring the remaining tooth structure is also an important part of care. After endodontic treatment, Dr. Plucinsky will determine what type of restorative treatment is needed to protect the tooth and restore function.
Depending on the amount of remaining structure, this may involve a crown or another appropriate restoration.
When Is Tooth Pain a Dental Emergency?
Severe tooth pain, facial swelling, trauma or other rapidly worsening symptoms may require prompt dental evaluation. If you are experiencing an urgent problem, contact our office as soon as possible.
You can also learn more about our emergency dental care services.
Schedule a Root Canal Evaluation in South Euclid, OH
If you have persistent tooth pain, sensitivity or signs of a damaged or infected tooth, an examination can help determine the cause and whether root canal therapy may help preserve the tooth.
Contact our office or call 216-381-6521 to schedule an evaluation for root canal therapy in South Euclid, Ohio.
Root Canal Therapy FAQs
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy removes inflamed, infected or damaged pulp tissue from inside a tooth. The internal space is then cleaned, filled and sealed before the tooth is restored.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Persistent tooth pain, lingering temperature sensitivity, pain when biting or swelling may indicate a problem involving the pulp. These symptoms can have other causes, so a dental examination is needed to determine whether root canal treatment is appropriate.
Does a root canal hurt?
Local anesthesia is used during treatment to help keep you comfortable. Individual experiences vary depending on the condition of the tooth and surrounding tissues.
How long does root canal treatment take?
Treatment time varies according to the tooth and complexity of the case. Some root canals may be completed in one visit, while others require additional appointments.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
Many root canal-treated teeth benefit from a crown, particularly when substantial tooth structure has been lost. Dr. Plucinsky will recommend the appropriate restoration based on the tooth.
Can a root canal save an infected tooth?
Root canal therapy may allow certain infected or damaged teeth to remain in place after the affected pulp is removed and the tooth is properly restored. Whether a tooth can be saved depends on its overall condition.
Is a root canal better than having the tooth extracted?
The appropriate treatment depends on whether the tooth can be predictably restored. When preservation is possible, root canal therapy may allow you to keep the natural tooth. If the tooth cannot be restored, extraction may be necessary.
When should I call about tooth pain?
Contact our office if tooth pain is persistent, worsening or accompanied by swelling or other concerning symptoms. Contact our office or call 216-381-6521 so our team can determine how soon you should be evaluated.
