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Endodontics FAQ's
Q: Why doesn’t my general dentist perform the root canal treatment?
A: Although all dentists receive training in endodontic treatment in dental school, endodontists complete an additional two or more years of advanced specialized training. Therefore, even a dentist who does perform some root canals may feel it is in your best interest to refer more complex cases to a specialist. Additionally, endodontists invest in the ever advancing technology designed for their specialty.
Q: What causes pulp damage?
A: The pulp can become inflamed or infected for a variety of reasons such as: deep decay, multiple dental procedures on the tooth, crack or chip, or trauma from a blow or accident.
Q: What are the benefits of endodontic treatment versus alternative treatment?
A: Root canal treatment allows you to save your natural tooth while removing the pain associated with inflammation or infection. The only alternative to root canal treatment is extraction. To restore chewing function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, the extracted tooth must be replaced with a dental implant or bridge. This requires surgery or dental procedures on adjacent teeth that may not need work. Also, this can be more costly and time-consuming than endodontic treatment and restoration of your tooth.
Q: Why does root canal treatment sometimes fail?
A: There are a variety of causes for a root canal tooth to become reinfected. If the permanent restoration or crown is postponed for an extended amount of time, the temporary filling begins to break down allowing saliva to contaminate the root canal filling material. A loose, cracked, or broken crown or filling or new decay can expose the tooth to bacteria and new infection.
Q: How long will a tooth with a root canal last?
A: With proper care, a tooth that has had root canal treatment can last as long as other natural teeth.
Q: Will I have a lot of pain during or after my root canal procedure?
A: You should not experience pain during treatment. As with dental restorations by your general dentist, the endodontist will give you anesthetic to numb your tooth. After treatment, it is normal to feel sore and have some sensitivity to pressure on your tooth. This is because the bone and tissues holding your tooth in place are still alive and have feeling. When possible, it is recommended you take anti-inflammatory medication for at least the first forty-eight hours after treatment to assist in the healing process. If you do not feel your tooth is continually getting better after two or three weeks, please contact your endodontist for a follow up visit. Call your endodontist immediately if you start having swelling.
Q: Do I need to return to my general dentist after root canal treatment is completed?
A: In many cases, a temporary filling is placed in the access opening of your tooth. This filling usually begins to break down and may leak after about six weeks. It is recommended you return to your dentist for the final restoration within two to four weeks. If the endodontist places the final filling, you will only need to return to your general dentist for regular scheduled check-ups unless otherwise directed.
If you have a question that was not answered, please feel free to give us a call. You may also email your non-urgent questions to info@parkland-endodontics.com. Kindly allow up to 48 hours for a reply during regular business hours.
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