If root canal therapy is indicated, a local anesthetic is used. We will remove the nerve and bacteria from your tooth, clean the infection and seal theroots of the tooth. You will have no pain during this procedure. It can usually be completed in one to twovisits depending on the required treatment. Most patients return to their normal daily routine after treatment. After treatment is completed you will need to see your general dentist within one month for a final restoration. A treatment report will be sent to their office.
Generally, conventional root canal therapy is all that is needed. Success rates for a non-surgical treatmentis above90%. Occasionally, microsurgerymay beneeded to save a tooth. This technique can be useful in locating root fractures and treating canals thatmay not be able to beaccessed through standard root canal therapy.The most common microsurgical procedure iscalled an apicoectomy.
It is unusual for patients to experience complications after conventional root canal therapy or microsurgery. However, if you do experience any problems, we are available to respond to you atany time.
It is normal for your tooth to be sore for the first few days after root canal therapy has been completed. Initially, soft foods are recommended, as they will provide less discomfort during chewing. The soreness may continue for up to one week. Your tooth may feel differently the second and third weeks. By the fourth week, it should feel like your other teeth.
You will be givenIbuprofen to aid post-operative healing and to help manage any discomfort. It isan anti-inflammatory pain medication that will reduce the inflammation in the area that was treated. If the Ibuprofen does not alleviate your symptoms, please call the office and let us know.
For female patients, there may be an interaction between antibiotics and oral contraceptives.If you are presently taking antibiotics or if our office has prescribed them, please use alternative means of birth control for your entire cycle that month.
If you have any questions or concerns following your treatment, please do not hesitate to call our office. If your call is after office hours or on the weekend, the doctors cell phone number will be available.