Root Canal: An Overview
Root canal treatment, also called endodontics, is needed when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth is infected through decay or injury. The term root canal refers to the inside of the tooth, which houses the tooth’s nerve and soft tissue, called pulp.
Endodontics treatment is one of the most common general dentistry procedures offered at the Metropolitan Center for Complete Dentistry. If the tooth is damaged or has decay, bacteria, and debris can enter the root canal and cause an infection. This may eventually lead to an abscess.
If root canal treatment is not performed, the infection will spread, and the tooth may need to be removed. Dr. Upadya offers endodontics treatment from the comfort of his East Hanover, NJ dentist office.
Root Canal FAQs
Is root canal treatment painful?
While most people think a root canal is a painful procedure, it should feel no different than having a dental filling placed. The pain is actually from the infection inside the tooth, not the procedure. Dr. Upadya uses a computerized anesthetic called The Wand to deliver a precise and controlled anesthetic dose for pain-free root canal treatment.
We may also use sedation dentistry for patients with anxiety to help them remain relaxed and calm throughout treatment. Most of our patients feel relief after the infection has been removed. Removing the infected pulp will relieve any pressure caused by the infected tooth.
Is a root canal necessary?
If you want to save your infected tooth, yes. This procedure can save an infected tooth from being completely removed. If the damage to your tooth is too much, we will recommend a tooth extraction. The only way of knowing if you need one is to visit our dentist’s office for a dental exam.
Is a root canal a difficult procedure?
No. With today’s advancements in modern dentistry, root canals can be completed within one to two dental visits. Dr. Upadya uses the latest techniques to alleviate your pain and give lasting results swiftly.
Should I have my tooth extracted or live with the gap?
We recommend replacing your tooth with a dental implant if it is extracted. Missing teeth can open up new opportunities for infections of nearby teeth, jawbone loss, facial sagging, and more.
Is a tooth crown necessary after root canal treatment?
It depends on which tooth is treated. You will need a crown to protect the tooth if your molars or premolars are affected. Front teeth, canines, and incisors may not need a dental crown.
How long do root canals take to settle?
After a few hours, the numbness from your root canal goes away for most patients. A few days of soreness following a root canal procedure is completely normal. It may take a few weeks or months for your root canal to fully settle, depending on how your body responds to the procedure and the area where the root canal was performed.
Root Canal: What to Expect
The goal of root canal treatment is to remove all infected tissue from the inside of the tooth and then fill the tooth to prevent further infection.
Dr. Upadya will begin the procedure by making a small hole to allow access to the inside of the tooth. He will use this to remove the infected pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria with special dental instruments.
He will then thoroughly clean and polish the tooth and remove excess material. Antibiotics may be prescribed if there is an infection, and the tooth will be temporarily sealed until the infection has healed.
Once the infection is clear and the root canal is free of debris, it will be filled with a biocompatible rubber compound called gutta-percha. Next, Dr. Upadya will cover the tooth with a dental filling or crown to add strength and protect it from future damage.
Custom-fit and color-matched to your natural teeth, a dental crown fits around the tooth like a cap and will support the long-term health of your tooth.
Root Canal Treatment vs. Tooth Extraction
A tooth extraction is an alternative to root canal treatment. Once the pulp is destroyed, it cannot regenerate. It is not recommended to leave an infected tooth in the mouth.
Although some prefer an extraction, keeping as many natural teeth as possible is usually best. Root canal treatment makes that possible.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Root Canal Consultation
To learn more about root canal treatment, contact our Summit, NJ, and East Hanover, NJ, area dentist office for a consultation with Dr. Raj Upadya. Call us at 973-241-5169 or schedule an appointment online today.