- What Is A Root Canal?
- What Are the Benefits of A Root Canal?
- How Is A Root Canal Performed?
- What Can I Expect when Recovering from Root Canal Therapy?
- Do Root Canals Hurt?
- Root Canal Therapy Reviews
- Am I a Candidate for Root Canal Therapy?
- What Are The Risks Of Root Canal Therapy?
- Is Root Canal Therapy Covered By Insurance?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Save Your Tooth, Save Your Smile
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
- Related Posts
What Is A Root Canal?
Chipped or deteriorating teeth are frequently treated utilizing a filling or another form of replacement if they are detected and managed as soon as possible. However, when decay spreads to the middle of the tooth, sometimes called the pulp, a root canal is potentially needed to restore dental wellness and prevent extraction. A root canal is a specialized procedure offered at Memphis Endodontics to extract infected inner tooth tissue and close off the affected tooth to improve dental health. Drs. Harris, Wells, Scott, Cain, Dagen, and McCreary improve infected or structurally deteriorating teeth by utilizing thorough root canal therapy in Memphis, TN and employing sedation techniques to further enhance patient ease. When you find yourself with a damaged tooth or signs of an abscessed tooth, reach out to any of our locations in Kirby, Collierville, or East Memphis at your earliest convenience to learn about the upsides of delicate root canal treatment.
What Are the Benefits of A Root Canal?
A root canal procedure effectively treats infected or damaged teeth, relieving pain and preserving your natural smile. Additional benefits include:
- Alleviates severe tooth pain
- Removes infection and prevents its spread
- Saves the natural tooth from extraction
- Restores normal biting and chewing function
- Enhances overall oral health and hygiene with endodontic care
How Is A Root Canal Performed?
At Memphis Endodontics, root canals are carried out under local anesthesia, which can be combined with other sedation services for increased comfort. As soon as the tooth is dulled, a shield will be set to block the patient's mouth, and the affected region will be exposed through a little opening created in the top of the tooth. The pulp (the structure that holds the nerve center and blood supply for the tooth) will be extracted, and the region will be reshaped as part of your endodontic treatment using advanced endodontic instruments before being fully sanitized. One of our endodontic specialists will then protect the infected tooth using an effective substance and conclude with an anesthetic filling to start the healing period.
What Can I Expect when Recovering from Root Canal Therapy?
During root canal recovery, you can expect some mild discomfort or tenderness around the treated area, which typically lasts for a few days. Memphis Endodontics will provide post-treatment instructions to help manage any pain, including over-the-counter pain relievers and avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully healed. Most patients resume their normal activities the day after treatment, although it's important to follow your dentist’s recommendations for rest and oral care. A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to ensure the healing process is progressing as expected.
Do Root Canals Hurt?
Many patients are surprised to learn that modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. With today’s advanced techniques and effective numbing methods, most people describe the procedure as comfortable and comparable to getting a routine dental filling. Any discomfort you felt before treatment, typically caused by infection or inflammation, usually improves quickly once the source of the pain is treated. After the appointment, the tooth may feel slightly tender for a short period as the surrounding tissues settle, but this is temporary and easily managed with recommended home care. Our team will ensure you feel at ease throughout the process and understand exactly what to expect at each step.
Root Canal Therapy Reviews
I came to Memphis Endodontics after a root canal gone wrong by a general dentist. After weeks of pain, infection and swelling, I feared I’d have to have the tooth pulled. Dr Scott gave me hope along with a successful repeat root canal. The Collierville office is warm and welcoming. The staff is professional and incredibly helpful. Michelle knows all things insurance and helps every step of the way. Dr Scott is highly capable, informative, friendly, comforting and funny. I hope to never need them again but I highly recommend!!
Great service! Got 2 root canals done in under a month. Was very easy to schedule!
Ms. Debbie and Dr. Wells are a special duo. Though a root canal is not an ideal morning, there is a comfort and reliability these two provided. Highly recommend!
Dr. Scott and staff are thoroughly professional, but also kind, friendly, and relaxed. I felt comfortable there, as if I'd known them for years. Even the unpleasantness of undergoing a root canal dissipated in the face of their engaging conversation. I highly recommend.
Had dying roots under a fresh crown, pain was unbearable. Memphis Endodontics got me in on short notice and the root canal was planned, efficient, and pain free. Can’t recommend Dr. Pickering enough. He was friendly but intentional, and got me fixed up with no issues. If you have tooth pain or referral for a root canal, go see him.
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Am I a Candidate for Root Canal Therapy?
Candidates for a root canal procedure are individuals experiencing severe tooth decay or infection within the tooth's pulp, which is the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. This tooth-saving dental treatment is often recommended for signs of an abscessed tooth or those at risk of extraction due to decay reaching the pulp. Root canal therapy is also suitable for those with teeth that are significantly damaged or have deep cavities. If you're experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to heat or cold, or swelling around the teeth or gums, consult with Memphis Endodontics to determine if this treatment is right for you.
What Are The Risks Of Root Canal Therapy?
While root canal therapy is a highly successful and common procedure, it is important to understand the potential risks involved. These may include a reinfection of the tooth if the canals were not fully cleaned or if the sealant breaks down over time. There is also a small possibility of a tooth fracture if the structure has been significantly weakened by decay or if an instrument breaks within the canal during the cleaning process. However, by choosing an experienced specialist at Memphis Endodontics, you can significantly minimize these risks and ensure the best possible outcome for your long-term dental health.
Is Root Canal Therapy Covered By Insurance?
Insurance coverage for a root canal depends on your specific dental plan, including your provider, the necessity of the procedure, and the details of your benefits. Many plans offer partial coverage for root canals if the treatment is medically necessary, but out-of-pocket costs can still vary. At Memphis Endodontics, our dedicated team can guide you through your insurance options, answer any financial questions, and ensure you receive high-quality care without added stress. Our goal is to make sure that you have all the necessary information and resources available to make informed decisions about your dental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is root canal therapy painful?
Thanks to advancements in dental technology, a root canal should cause no more significant discomfort than a tooth filling. Your tooth will be numbed before the procedure to ensure you don’t experience any pain.
What are the alternatives to a root canal?
The only alternative to having a root canal is to have your infected tooth extracted. If the tooth can be saved through a root canal, it is highly recommended to choose this option, as a missing tooth can lead to significant issues with your oral health.
How long does root canal recovery take?
During your consultation, we will review any specific aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing. You should expect to recover from your root canal within just a few days. If you have any questions about root canal recovery, please don't hesitate to reach out to your dental surgery team.
What happens after the root canal?
After a root canal procedure, the inside of the tooth has been cleaned and sealed, but the outer portion still needs protection. The tooth is typically restored with a permanent filling or dental crown to strengthen it and restore normal function. This final restoration helps protect the tooth from fracture and prevents bacteria from reentering the canal system.
Is there a risk of reinfection after a root canal procedure?
While root canal treatment has a high success rate, reinfection can occur if the final restoration is delayed, damaged, or if a crack develops in the tooth. In some cases, complex canal anatomy or previously missed canals may contribute to recurring infection. When this happens, endodontic retreatment may be necessary to remove bacteria and reseal the canals.
How do I care for my tooth after a root canal?
After a root canal procedure, continue brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and maintaining routine dental checkups. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods until the tooth has been fully restored with a permanent crown if recommended. Proper oral hygiene and timely restoration help support long-term success and protect the treated tooth.
Save Your Tooth, Save Your Smile
Signs of an abscessed tooth may cause a wide range of dental and total health concerns when disregarded or not taken care of. However, due to advances in modern dentistry, a root canal from Memphis Endodontics may be a great approach to rescue your tooth as well as your dental wellness. Contact one of our practices in or around Memphis, TN to arrange an evaluation and learn more about our approach to root canal treatment.