At Common Sense Family Dentistry, we regularly perform a root canal endodontic treatment in order to remove infections and save our patients’ teeth. Dr. Scott Stucki can complete the procedure and work to keep patients comfortable. Root canals are a common procedure. If you are currently experiencing tooth pain, we invite you to call (435) 319-8992 to schedule an appointment and see if you need a root canal endodontic treatment.
Why do most people need a root canal?
When a tooth becomes infected, that infection can spread into the center of the tooth. This area is called the dental pulp. Inside of the dental pulp is the nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. All of the sensitive areas of the tooth are contained here. As such, when the area becomes infected it can be incredibly painful, requiring immediate treatment. We can perform a root canal quickly on people living in and around the St. George area.
How does the treatment work?
A root canal endodontic procedure works by creating a small hole in the tooth so that all of the infected areas can be removed. The dental pulp is removed, and oftentimes so are the roots. You only need your tooth roots to feel sensations like hot and cold and for the tooth to grow in. Once it has fully matured, removing the roots will not directly harm the tooth. It can, however, prevent the further spread of infection so when it is necessary to remove the roots; we promptly do so. Once done, we will clean the area to ensure that the infection is gone. Our dentist will typically prescribe antibiotics, as well. This ensures that any lingering infection is eliminated.
In order to complete the root canal, we will seal up the hole and area where the dental pulp used to be. This is typically done with something called gutta-percha. This is a rubber-like substance that can help to stabilize the tooth now that a portion is missing. At Common Sense Family Dentistry, we will then use a filling or crown in order to further strengthen and protect the damaged tooth. Both fillings and crowns can now be created in a tooth-color. This means that regardless of where your infected tooth is located, a crown can be used, and it will blend in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. Patients appreciate how natural their tooth looks once the procedure is complete.
St. George, Utah Root Canal Treatment
Why should I have a root canal endodontics treatment?
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Scott Stucki to discuss the health of your teeth, any problems that you may be having and what should be done to heal and protect the tooth. If it appears that a root canal is the best option, we will make this recommendation. If not, we will present a treatment solution that will solve your health issue. Overall, a root canal endodontics treatment is extremely effective for saving damaged teeth by removing any infection that may be there. This single treatment makes it possible for millions of teeth to be saved on an annual basis and once it is completed; eating and drinking becomes easy again.
What about discomfort?
We work to help patients to feel comfortable during their root canal endodontics procedure by using sedation dentistry. We have a variety of ways that we can eliminate both discomfort and anxiety during a root canal. Whether a patient needs to take something ahead of time to relax or medication to numb the specific area that is being worked on Dr. Scott Stucki can provide painless dentistry and help patients enjoy their dental treatments.
What are the advantages of this procedure?
In the past, many people would need to have their teeth pulled if they became severely infected or the dental pulp became inflamed. Now, those same teeth can be saved by performing a root canal. This is a far better option because it keeps the natural tooth in place. This is important for the shape of the face because as teeth fall out the muscles in the face can start to sag. While this is not particularly common with the loss of one tooth, it is when several become infected and fall out. By treating and saving an infected tooth, Dr. Scott Stucki is helping to preserve our patients’ facial structure.
Another benefit is that once the root canal has been completed, and the filling or crown is in place; it is possible to eat like normal and without restrictions. Once the infection is gone, and the tooth is strengthened, it will behave like it used to. That makes it possible to bite down with normal force, chew, and maintain normal activities without worrying about the tooth. This helps patients get back to return to their busy schedules.
A restored tooth will look completely natural if a tooth-colored crown or filling is used to restore it. In fact, crowns can be created in the exact shade of the surrounding teeth so that it blends in perfectly. This way no one will know that you ever had a procedure completed. If, in fact, you had a root canal done previously, you may want to have the filling or crown around it replaced with today’s version for an improved appearance.
Alternatively, if don’t have a root canal endodontics procedure completed, the infected tooth will likely need to be pulled. This is essential for preventing the spread of infection. Once the tooth is removed it will need to be replaced. The options for doing so involve wearing a denture, getting a dental bridge or having dental implants installed. These are all viable solutions but take additional time, and the recovery period is longer since the procedures will take several steps. Therefore, one possible solution is to have Dr. Scott Stucki attempt to save your tooth by performing a root canal endodontics procedure. To learn more about a root canal treatment in St. George, Utah, call Common Sense Family Dentistry at (435) 319-8992 and schedule an appointment.
Root Canal Treatment FAQs
Q: Why does my tooth need a root canal?
A: Your tooth may need a root canal if the inner pulp, containing a tooth’s blood vessels and nerves, develops an infection or is otherwise damaged from deep decay, a crack, or other trauma. This infection can cause severe pain, swelling, and abscess formation, and if left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. A root canal removes the tooth’s infected inner pulp, cleans and disinfects the inner chamber, and seals the tooth to prevent further infection. This procedure saves the natural tooth, eliminates pain, and restores function, making it a crucial treatment for preserving dental health.
Q: Once my root canal is complete, how will my tooth remain protected from future damage?
A: After a root canal, your tooth is protected from future damage by sealing it with a filling and usually placing a crown on top. The crown provides structural support, restores the tooth’s function, and prevents bacteria from re-entering the cleaned and sealed root canal space. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is essential to protect the treated tooth from decay and further complications. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last a lifetime without issues.
Q: I’ve heard that root canals are very painful – is this true?
A: The perception that root canals are very painful is largely a myth. Modern root canal procedures are designed to be as comfortable as possible, with most patients experiencing little to no pain. Dentists use local anesthesia to numb the affected area, ensuring that you feel no discomfort during your root canal procedure. There’s a chance of slight soreness or sensitivity following the treatment, but over-the-counter painkillers may usually take care of it. A root canal is often no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling.
Q: How long will it take to complete my root canal procedure?
A: Depending on the case’s complexity, a root canal procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes per tooth. Sometimes, the procedure can be completed in a single visit, while more complex cases may require two or more appointments. The length of the procedure depends on factors such as the number of canals in the tooth, the severity of the infection, and whether any additional treatments, such as placing a crown, are needed. Your dentist will provide a specific timeline based on your situation.
Q: My tooth still hurts following my root canal – is this normal?
A: It’s normal to experience mild pain or discomfort following a root canal, especially in the first few days. This discomfort is typically due to inflammation in the surrounding tissues and should gradually subside. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this discomfort. However, if the pain persists or worsens after a few days, it may indicate a complication, such as an incomplete cleaning of the canals or a new infection. In such cases, contacting your dentist promptly for further evaluation and treatment is important.
Q: What are the benefits of having a root canal procedure?
A: A root canal’s main advantage is that it preserves your natural tooth and avoids the necessity for extraction. By removing the damaged pulp, a root canal eliminates pain and restores the tooth’s function. This allows you to chew and speak normally without discomfort from a compromised tooth. Additionally, preserving the natural tooth helps maintain the alignment of surrounding teeth and supports overall oral health. A successful root canal can prevent the spread of infection to other teeth and tissues, providing long-term benefits for your dental health.
Q: Will my dental insurance cover a root canal?
A: Since root canals are deemed required restorative procedures, many dental insurance policies will pay a percentage of the cost of the surgery. Coverage typically includes the root canal treatment itself, any required X-rays, and possibly the price of the crown or filling used to restore the tooth afterward. The amount covered, however, may differ based on your insurance plan; your out-of-pocket expenses may be affected by deductibles, copayments, and annual maximums, among other things. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your coverage before undergoing the procedure.