Our Services / Root Canals

What are root canals?

A root canal removes the infected or inflamed pulp from a tooth. Tooth pulp contains nerves and blood vessels and makes it possible to feel temperature sensations like hot and cold. 

By removing the pulp from the center of a tooth, it’s possible to stop the pain, prevent infection from spreading, and preserve your permanent tooth for years to come.

Why are root canals performed?

At Fair Lakes Family Dentistry, the team uses root canal therapy to treat pulp damage caused by:

• A blow to the mouth
• Extensive dental work
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Severe dental decay

If your teeth are extra sensitive or your gums swell and don’t respond to over-the-counter medication, contact the team at Fair Lakes Family Dentistry immediately.

What do root canals involve?

At Fair Lakes Family Dentistry, a root canal takes two visits about a week apart.

First root canal visit

First, your provider conducts an oral exam and takes a series of X-rays to assess the extent of the damage or decay. Next, they numb your mouth and remove the pulp from your tooth.

Your provider cleans your tooth and fills it with gutta-percha. Then, they take impressions of your tooth and put a temporary crown on top.

The team at Fair Lakes Family Dentistry sends your impressions to a dental laboratory. The lab uses your impressions to manufacture a permanent crown that fits your tooth perfectly.

Second root canal visit

When the lab finishes your permanent crown, you return to Fair Lakes Family Dentistry. Your provider numbs your mouth and bonds the permanent crown to your treated tooth. Then, they provide care instructions.

What is recovery like following a root canal?

After a root canal, you’ll probably experience some mild swelling and increased tooth sensitivity. To speed up the healing process, the team at Fair Lakes Family Dentistry recommends:

• Avoiding foods and drinks that are really hot or cold
• Brushing and flossing gently
• Eating only soft foods for several days, like eggs and mashed potatoes
• Using a desensitizing toothpaste
• Taking over-the-counter pain medicine

If your symptoms persist for more than a few days, or they interfere with your ability to work or exercise, contact the team at Fair Lakes Family Dentistry right away.

If you want to learn more about root canals, don’t wait to make an appointment at Fair Lakes Family Dentistry. Call the office today and speak to a member of the friendly administrative team, or click the online scheduling feature.