Endodontic FAQs
WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL?
A root canal treatment is intended to address an inflamed or infected pulp tissue in a tooth. The process involves removing the pulp like tissue that resides within the canal spaces, followed by a thorough disinfection and filling of that space with a sterile, biocompatible filling material.
WHY CHOOSE AN ENDODONTIST?
Endodontists are dentists who have completed at least two years of additional training in root canal treatment. Because our practice is limited to endodontics, we perform root canal therapy every day. As root canal specialists, we are able to effectively treat and accurately diagnose difficult cases.
WILL A ROOT CANAL COMPROMISE THE AESTHETICS OF MY TOOTH?
No. Root canal therapy is performed inside the tooth. The only way to tell if a tooth has had root canal therapy is with radiographic verification (dental X-ray).
IS A ROOT CANAL CONSIDERED A MAJOR PROCEDURE?
No. Dental procedures are unlike most medical procedures, which often require some time to recover. Even within the dental field, there are other procedures that are far more invasive than root canal treatment.
HOW MUCH TIME DO I NEED TO TAKE OFF FROM WORK IN ORDER TO RECOVER FROM THE PROCEDURE?
Typically, no time off is required. The procedure is usually performed in the midst of your daily schedule.
I WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND A SOCIAL FUNCTION A FEW HOURS AFTER MY PROCEDURE. DO I NEED TO CANCEL MY PLANS?
Typically not. See the answer above.
CAN I GO TO THE GYM OR EXERCISE AFTERWARD OR SHOULD I TAKE IT EASY?
You can go to the gym, run, jog, or perform any routine you typically do.
CAN I WEAR MY NIGHTGUARD OR FLOSS AFTER MY ROOT CANAL?
Yes.
I’VE HEARD ROOT CANALS ARE PRETTY PAINFUL. HOW MUCH PAIN AM I GOING TO BE IN AFTERWARD?
The level of post-treatment discomfort varies among patients. Many patients report none, while others have soreness which is manageable with over-the-counter pain medicine.
HOW LONG WILL I BE NUMB FOR?
The effects of the local anesthetic can persist for up to three hours (or more depending on the type of local anesthetic used).
WILL I NEED TO BE PUT TO SLEEP?
Root canal therapy is most often performed using local anesthesia, much like any other dental procedure. We do, however, recommend taking a prescribed anxiolytic prior to treatment. We will discuss those options with you during your consultation.
HOW LONG WILL THE PROCEDURE TAKE?
The procedure typically takes 1 to 1.5 hrs, depending on the complexity of the case.
WILL THE PROCEDURE BE COMPLETED IN ONE VISIT?
Most of the time, we aim to complete the procedure in one visit. However, certain cases may need a second visit to complete.
IF I NEED A SECOND APPOINTMENT TO COMPLETE THE PROCEDURE, WILL I HAVE A HOLE IN MY TOOTH?
No, the access hole in your tooth will have a temporary restoration.
IF I NEED A SECOND APPOINTMENT TO COMPLETE THE PROCEDURE, WILL THERE BE AN ADDITIONAL CHARGE?
We do not base our fees on “chair-time”, but rather on the procedure. So, whether the treatment takes one or two visits to complete, the fee remains the same.
WILL I NEED TO COME BACK FOR A CHECK-UP?
The need for a check-up visit is determined on a case-by-case basis.