Jesek, Willhite, & Griffin Family Dental Care Center

Endodontic Therapy - Root Canals

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There are several reasons why you may need a root canal. Root canal therapy can save a tooth whose pulp, which contains the nerve, has been damaged by deep decay, a large filling, fracture or trauma due to a direct physical blow or heavy bite. Regardless of the initial cause, the nerve of the tooth becomes irritated and an infection, or abscess, occurs causing pressure and pain. In some teeth, deterioration and death of the pulp happens gradually so little discomfort is felt. In either case, root canal therapy is required to remove the infected nerve tissue, relieve pain, and ultimately save the tooth.

Root canal therapy usually requires multiple
visits. First, the decay or old filling is removed and an opening into the nerve chamber is created to clean out the infected pulp tissue. Medicine is placed in the tooth and it is temporarily sealed for immediate pain relief. Antibiotics are prescribed to help control the infection. Once the tooth is free of infection, special instruments are used to remove all of the nerve tissue and to properly clean and shape the canals. The canals are then sealed to prevent bacteria from reentering the tooth. In this way, root canal therapy is completed with minimal discomfort to the patient.

A tooth that has undergone root canal therapy becomes brittle over time. Therefore, a crown is recommended to protect the tooth from further fracture. At this office we take every step possible to avoid extraction of a tooth, and root canal therapy is an excellent option to relieve pain and infection and save your natural tooth.

Post-Operative Instructions Following Root Canal Treatment:

	It is normal to experience soreness for a day or two. A prescription for pain medication is usually given after your root canal to relieve discomfort.
	Antibiotics may be prescribed as well to fight any residual infection.
	Eat soft foods for the next few days after treatment. Also, remember that the tooth will be very brittle and prone to fracture until a crown is placed.
	Continue your normal brushing and flossing routine.
	If there is continued swelling or severe pain, please call our office.