ROOT CANAL Therapy

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth. This inner area, called the pulp, contains nerves and blood vessels that can become damaged due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental work.

When the pulp becomes infected, it can cause significant pain and may lead to an abscess or tooth loss if left untreated. Root canal therapy removes the infected tissue, disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection. This treatment preserves your natural tooth while eliminating discomfort at its source.

You may need root canal therapy if you experience:

• Persistent toothache or throbbing
• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Swelling or tenderness around the gums
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
• A pimple or bump on the gums

Even if symptoms improve on their own, an untreated infection can continue to spread. Early treatment is important for protecting your overall health and avoiding more complex dental procedures.

Many patients are surprised to learn that a root canal feels similar to getting a dental filling. At Romine Family Dental, your comfort is our priority throughout the entire process.

Here is what you can expect:

Numbing the Area

The tooth and surrounding tissues are gently numbed to ensure a comfortable experience.

Access and Cleaning

A small opening is made to reach the infected pulp, which is then carefully removed.

Shaping and Disinfecting

The inside of the tooth is cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to eliminate bacteria.

Sealing the Tooth

The canals are filled with a safe, rubber like material to prevent reinfection.

Restoration

A temporary or permanent filling is placed. In most cases, a dental crown is recommended to restore strength and protect the tooth.

Root canal therapy is typically completed in one or two visits, and most patients are able to resume normal activities the same day.

Root canal therapy offers several meaningful benefits:

• Relieves pain and inflammation
• Saves your natural tooth
• Helps maintain proper bite and jaw alignment
• Prevents surrounding teeth from shifting
• Restores function, comfort, and appearance

By treating the infection at its source, root canals help prevent more extensive and costly dental treatments in the future.

Following your root canal, you may experience mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. For best results:

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until fully restored.
• Keep the area clean with gentle brushing and flossing.
• Return for your follow-up appointment to complete the final restoration.
• Continue routine dental checkups to monitor oral health

With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last for many years, often a lifetime.