What is a root canal? Is it painful? How long does it take? How long will it last?

A root canal typically is performed to save your tooth when the pulp in the tooth’s root is damaged. The procedure involves cleaning out, shaping, and filling the root canal to prevent recontamination of the tooth. The tooth is then permanently restored using a filling or a crown.

In most cases, routine local anesthesia will control any discomfort during treatment. Occasionally, if a tooth is highly inflamed, a dentist will use other techniques to make the patient more comfortable. It is possible to have some postoperative discomfort for a brief time, however this can usually be relieved with pain medication.

Root canals typically require one or two 30- to 90-minute dental visits. If the procedure is complicated, additional visits may be required. A root canal, coupled with proper restoration, will enable your tooth to function permanently as a healthy tooth. Dr. Dantini will assess in advance if your tooth is a candidate for endodontics, or root canal therapy.

For more information on root canals follow this link