HEALTH AND CARE

Root Canals

Forget everything negative you’ve heard about root canals. Get ready for a comfortable and smooth experience.

HEALTH AND CARE

Root Canals

Have you been told you need a root canal? The very thought can cause anxiety and apprehension, but this common endodontic treatment happens thousands of times each year across the United States.

We perform the root canal procedure in our office and can help not only put your mind at ease, but also help save your affected tooth.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is an invasive treatment that involves removing damaged or infected pulp from inside the center of a tooth. This process allows us to clean out any remaining bacteria and seal off the area so it does not become re-infected, which helps to save you from losing a tooth.

The Causes of a Root Canal

There are many reasons why we may recommend performing a root canal on one of your teeth:

  • A large cavity has formed around the nerve of the tooth, causing pain when chewing or biting down hard.
  • You have had several fillings placed over the years without proper sealing between them. These areas allow for bacterial growth and deep decay.
  • Your tooth was severely fractured during childhood and never properly repaired.
  • Decay has spread into the inner part of the tooth, making it painful to eat certain foods such as sweets or things that are hot or cold.
  • You have a tooth infection that has reached the inner part of your tooth (the pulp chamber).

How Does It Work?

During a root canal procedure, we will remove all diseased tissue from within the affected tooth using special instruments. Debris and decayed tissue will be cleaned away, and the empty space left after cleaning is packed with a biocompatible substance known as gutta percha. This gives strength back to the affected tooth, allowing you to chew and bite with confidence. Then, the area is sealed off with a permanent filling.

This allows you to keep your natural tooth and your smile intact.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal Therapy

If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact us to schedule an exam:

  • Pain while eating or drinking something hot or cold
  • Swelling or tenderness near the gumline or other soft tissue
  • A pimple-like bump on the gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Toothache lasting more than two weeks
  • Difficulty opening wide enough to brush your teeth
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Sensitivity to heat or cold

Root Canals Are Safe and Effective!

We use state-of-the art equipment and techniques to ensure safety and effectiveness every time. Our patients come first, and we take great care to make sure their comfort is always top priority throughout their root canal and other dental treatments.

Are Root Canals a Two-Step Treatment?

In most cases, they are actually performed in just one visit. We do everything possible to avoid making you return to complete the procedure. However, if your tooth is infected severely, you may need to wait for the final part of the procedure until the infection clears with oral antibiotics.

If this is the case, your tooth will be cleaned and packed with medication. A temporary filling will be placed over the access point. When your tooth is treated again, it will be packed with gutta percha and sealed.

Some patients require a porcelain crown as part of their root canal treatment.

Is There Anything I Should Know About My Procedure?

You should know what to expect before coming in for your appointment. The following information will give you some insight about how this procedure works and what to look forward to afterward.

  • If you’re nervous about the procedure, don’t worry. We provide anesthesia options to help you relax.
  • During treatment, our team will numb the area where the drill bit goes so you won’t feel anything at all.
  • After the procedure, you can go home right away. Most people report feeling normal again by evening.

For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. In most cases, this discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Be sure to follow any post-procedure instructions carefully.

What Happens Next?

After your root canal, you’ll receive postoperative instructions including when it’s safe to eat and drink, how to brush and floss your affected tooth, and what medications you may need. Your doctor will likely recommend taking prescribed antibiotics for several days to prevent bacteria from returning to the treated site.

After the procedure, you may need to return to the office to ensure everything is healing properly.

If you’ve been told you need a root canal or think you need a root canal, call us today to schedule a consultation about your endodontic treatment.

Get in Touch

Call Now: 479-259-9060

Visit Us

3301 S Walton Drive Ste 19
Bentonville, AR 72712

 

CONTACT US

We’re ready,Let’s talk.

Contact us to find out more or how we can help you.

Visit Us

3301 S Walton Drive Ste 19
Bentonville, AR 72712

Get in Touch

Call Now: 479-259-9060
Office hours: Monday – Thursday 8am – 4pm