Root Canals

Does the mere thought of having a root canal send you into a tailspin? There aren’t many procedures as misunderstood as root canals, but the reality is that state-of-the-art technology now allows us to perform root canals that are no more complicated than having a tooth filled.

The team at Wellington Dental understands and respects your concerns and will take every step to make sure you feel comfortable and cared for. If you are facing root canal treatment, being informed about the procedure and why it’s necessary can help soothe your anxiety.

Why Root Canals Are Necessary

Your tooth has several layers; the outermost layer is dental enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. Beneath the enamel is a softer, yellowish layer called dentin. Deep within the dentin is an area that contains soft tissue, the pulp, that houses the nerves and blood supply that keep the tooth alive.

If the pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, a crack in the tooth, or trauma from an accident, it needs to be removed as soon as possible. Without treatment, the infection will continue to cause intense pain and eventually result in loss of the tooth.

Here are a few indications that you need a root canal, but it's important to note that in some cases, there are no symptoms at all:

• Severe, persistent pain
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Tenderness to touch and chewing
• Discoloration of the tooth

What Happens during a Root Canal

For all the bad press the procedure receives, a root canal is a straightforward treatment that is not at all painful. Many people associate root canal therapy with pain, but it is the infection that causes the pain, not the procedure.

The first step is to get you settled comfortably in the chair with a warm blanket and pillow. If you like, we can offer headphones so you can drift off with your favorite music or TV show.

Dr. Jonathan Siefker will slowly and comfortably administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth we are treating so you won’t feel anything. Next, he will open up a small hole in the tooth to access the infected pulp. Using state-of-the-art instruments, Dr. Siefker then carefully clears away the infection and fills and seals the tooth.

Since a tooth with a root canal can become brittle, we will recommend a dental crown for strength and protection.

Do You Need A Root Canal?

You can minimize the risk of root canal infection by following proper oral hygiene routines and visiting our Wellington, OH dental office twice a year for exams and cleanings. However, we are not here to judge you if you have been less than diligent with your dental care. Our only goal is to relieve your discomfort and take steps to get your oral health back on track.

Are you in pain and suspect it may be because of a root canal infection? If so, please call our office at (440) 647-2752. We can usually see you the same day to relieve your discomfort and save your tooth.