Root Canal

Modern root canal procedures are performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the treatment itself, though you may experience some pressure or movement sensations. Most patients report that the procedure is no more uncomfortable than having a large filling placed, and many are surprised by how comfortable the experience actually is. Any mild discomfort after treatment typically resolves within a few days and can be managed effectively with over-the-counter pain medication as recommended by your dentist.

Root canal therapy typically requires two appointments scheduled about one week apart, with each visit lasting approximately 60-90 minutes depending on the complexity of your case. The first appointment involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the canals, and placing a temporary crown, while the second visit focuses on placing your permanent restoration. This two-visit approach allows for proper healing and ensures the best long-term success for your treated tooth.

With proper care and maintenance, root canals can last a lifetime, with success rates exceeding 95% when performed by experienced dental professionals. The longevity of your root canal depends on factors such as your oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding habits that could damage the restored tooth. Many patients enjoy decades of comfortable function from their root canal-treated teeth, making this treatment an excellent long-term investment in your oral health.

Root canals are dental procedures that treat infected or severely inflamed tooth pulp by removing the damaged tissue from inside the tooth and sealing it to prevent future infection. The treatment involves accessing the inner chamber of the tooth, thoroughly cleaning the root canals, and filling them with a biocompatible material before restoring the tooth with a crown. This procedure allows you to keep your natural tooth instead of having it extracted, maintaining proper function and avoiding the need for more complex tooth replacement options.

Root canals become necessary when the tooth pulp becomes infected or severely inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, as untreated infection can lead to serious health complications. Without root canal treatment, the infection will typically worsen, causing severe pain, abscess formation, and potential spread to other parts of the body. While tooth extraction is an alternative, root canal therapy is generally the preferred treatment because it preserves your natural tooth structure and maintains proper oral function.

At Volterra Dental Comprehensive and Aesthetic Dentistry, root canal therapy takes two visits about a week apart.

First Root Canal Visit

If your provider determines that you have a damaged or decaying tooth, they numb your mouth with a local anesthetic and carefully remove the pulp from the center of your tooth. Afterward, your provider rinses out your tooth with an antiseptic solution and fills it with a material called gutta-percha.
After the gutta-percha dries, your provider takes impressions of your tooth and covers it with a temporary crown. Last, your provider sends your impressions to a laboratory that manufactures a permanent crown.

Second Root Canal Visit

When the lab finishes your permanent crown, you return to Volterra Dental Comprehensive and Aesthetic Dentistry. Your provider numbs your mouth, removes the temporary crown, and replaces it with the permanent one.

After a root canal, you may experience mild swelling and increased tooth sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off. While your mouth heals, avoid biting down on or chewing with your temporary crown.

The Volterra Dental Comprehensive and Aesthetic Dentistry team recommends brushing more gently than usual and taking anti-inflammatory medication if you experience pain. You should be able to return to work and other activities within 24 hours.

To see if you can benefit from a root canal, make an appointment at Volterra Dental and Comprehensive Aesthetic Dentistry by calling the office or booking online today.