Root canal & endodontics in Pennsylvania

If you think you need endodontic therapy, then call our Pennsylvania office and we will do our best to assess your problem and help you resolve it.

Are Root Canals Always Necessary?

The inside of each tooth is filled with a soft substance called pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Sometimes, the pulp becomes infected, which can be due to trauma, disease or other factors. When this happens, you may need endodontic therapy to remove the infection, alleviate your pain, and restore the functionality of your tooth. Sometimes, endodontic therapy is the only way we can save your tooth. If you think you may need a dental root canal, then call our Pennsylvania office and schedule an appointment, particularly if you’re experiencing any of the following:

• Sensitivity to temperature or touch
• Persistent pain that can be mild or intense or anywhere in between
• Pain that interrupts your sleep
• Pain when you chew or bite down
• Large cavities
• Discoloration around one or more teeth
• Inflammation or swelling of the gums around a tooth

Is Endodontic Therapy the Same as a Root Canal Treatment?

Endodontic therapy is the medical term for the procedure, and it can be performed by many general dentists. Typically, root canals are performed on molars, but they can also be performed on other types of teeth. Since molars have multiple roots, they usually require a longer office visit than other types of teeth. When you come to our office for a root canal procedure, you can expect the following:

• Your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth so that you’re not in pain.
• A small shield will be placed around the tooth to maintain cleanliness.
• Your dentist will drill a hole in the top of your tooth so that the infected pulp can be removed.
• The infected pulp will be removed and we’ll clean the area and shape the canals.
• We’ll inject a disinfecting fluid into the area to cleanse it and remove any remaining debris.
• Your dentist will fill the canals with gutta-percha.
• Your dentist will install a root canal crown, and then your tooth will regain its functionality.
• Once your crown is installed, you shouldn’t experience any more discomfort from the tooth. However, if you find that you still have excessive swelling or pain after a few days, call our office and speak to one of our dentists.

Do I Need a Special Root Canal Dentist?

Many general dentists can perform root canals, but if you have a complicated procedure, we can refer you to a specialist, who’s called an endodontist. If you need dental work, call our Pennsylvania office for an appointment and let us help you restore your good oral health.

Are Root Canals Expensive?

The cost of endodontic therapy is unique to the individual, so your root canal cost will be different than other patients at our office. During your initial visit to our Pennsylvania office, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive estimate of both the work you need and the amount it will cost. Factors that will influence your final cost include the type and location of the tooth, any additional work that you need, your overall health, and your insurance benefits. If you need dental work, don’t delay seeking treatment because of cost. We want our patients to have good oral health, so we’ll work with you to make your dental work affordable. Call us today.

Which Type of Endodontic Therapy Will I Need?

Although there are different types of root canals, these specialty procedures are mostly only used in very particular situations. An apicoectomy may be necessary if you’ve had a prior endodontic treatment that wasn’t successful. Occasionally, a patient will need a pediatric pulpotomy, which will remove the infected pulp, but doesn’t affect the nerves. More than likely, you’ll require a standard endodontic therapy treatment, and we can help you with that. Call our Pennsylvania office today to schedule an appointment.

Should I Expect a Significant Amount of Pain?

Frequently, people associate root canals with significant levels of pain, but this isn’t the case. We strive to ensure our patient’s comfort throughout their procedure. The area will be numbed before we begin work and you’ll be provided pain medication as necessary throughout the procedure. If you need a dental root canal treatment, don’t delay seeking treatment because you’re afraid of the pain.

We have an excellent reputation in the community and we endeavor to maintain it, so we want to provide you with the best experience possible. Call our Pennsylvania office and make an appointment. We look forward to speaking with you and helping you regain your good oral health.