TENCZA-PUGLIESE DENTAL

Root Canals

Root Canals in Easton, PA

A root canal treatment is an endodontic treatment that is necessary when a tooth becomes infected or abscessed. Leaving your infected teeth untreated will negatively impact your oral health. At Tencza & Pugliese Dental, we offer root canal therapy that is comfortable and affordable.

What is root canal therapy?

A root canal is a dental treatment used to treat a badly infected or decayed tooth. The infection occurs when bacteria present in the mouth get inside the tooth pulp. The dental pulp comprises nerve tissue, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Once bacteria accumulate in the tooth, it can cause the pulp of a tooth to become inflamed.

The Procedure

A root canal typically requires one or two appointments to complete. Before the procedure, most dentists will give you local anesthesia. A temporary filling is placed in a small opening in the natural teeth during the operation, and the dentist will then clean out the infected pulp. Once the pulp has been removed, it is sealed with a permanent filling called gutta-percha, and a permanent crown is placed. After the surgery, you will need to visit your dental professional for a follow-up to ensure the infection is gone. Regular dental checkups are necessary to maintain good oral health.

How do I know if I need a root canal procedure?

Root canal therapy is necessary when the nerve of a tooth becomes infected or damaged. There are several indications that this may have occurred, including deep cavities, cracked teeth, the need for repeated dental procedures, and teeth that have been affected by trauma. The damage may not be visible to the naked eye in some cases. However, there are warning signs, such as throbbing pain or discomfort when chewing. If you suspect that you may need a root canal procedure, it is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible to avoid having the tooth extracted. The nerve can often be saved with prompt treatment, allowing for the preservation of the affected tooth. Here are some more symptoms to look out for:
  • Cracked tooth
  • Diseased tooth
  • Deep cavity
  • Severe pain
  • Mild to extreme discomfort when chewing
  • Deep decay
  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
  • Gum or facial swelling
  • Swollen gums
  • Pimples on the gums

How much does a root canal cost?

Root canal cost varies depending on damage and location. Generally, root canal treatment can range from $500 to $2,000. Consult with your dentist to determine the exact cost of root canal treatment. They will be able to recommend the best course of treatment and a personalized price estimate for your specific case.

What does root canal recovery look like?

Minor pain is expected immediately following the procedure. The pain is caused by inflammation of nerve endings in the natural tooth. Recovery typically takes about a week. There are many things you can do to relieve mild pain and prevent root canal complications, which include:
  • Take over-the-counter pain medication, which can help to alleviate pain.
  • Keep the area clean by avoiding chewing hard food in the affected area to prevent infection.
  • In some cases, a small pimple may form around the access hole. Take steps to avoid biting pimples.
  • Elevate the head when sleeping and don’t eat for a few hours after the procedure.
  • Gargle warm salt water.
  • Avoid anything that irritates the site, as this can lead to inflammation.
  • Avoid smoking.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol.
  • Avoid hot beverages.
  • Avoid using a straw. The sucking motion can cause blood clots or lead to a dry socket.

Schedule Your Consultation for Root Canal Treatment Today!

If you are suffering from tooth pain that won’t go away, contact Tencza & Pugliese Dental to schedule a consultation and find out if you need root canal treatment or other endodontic treatment to correct tooth decay issues. Our highly-skilled dentists are experts in oral and maxillofacial surgery and have performed many root canals. Your dental health is in good hands!