A root canal is a treatment used to save a tooth that is badly decayed and/or infected. Nerve and pulp, the soft area within the center of the tooth, can become irritated, inflamed, and infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the face. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
Root canal procedures have the reputation of being painful. In reality, most patients report that the procedure itself is no more painful than having a filling placed. The discomfort experienced in the period leading up to dental care is truly the painful period of time, not the root canal procedure itself.
The root canal procedure should relieve the pain you feel. Until your root canal procedure is completely finished – that is to say, the permanent filling is in place and/or the crown is placed, it is wise to minimize chewing on the tooth under repair. This step will help avoid re-contamination of the interior of the tooth and also may prevent a fragile tooth from breaking before the tooth can be fully restored. For the first few days following completion of treatment, the tooth may feel sensitive due to natural tissue inflammation, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure.
As far as oral health care is concerned, brush and floss as you regularly would and see your dentist at normally scheduled intervals. The final step of the root canal procedure is application of a restoration such as a crown, to cover and protect the tooth.
With our team at Eby Dental Care, you can rest assured that our commitment to high-quality care puts your goals and comfort first. We treat you like family and always recommend the most appropriate care options like root canals when needed, to keep you smiling in the years to come.
This office is always prompt, professional and very friendly and personable.
I've been going to Eby dental for a decade now. I came in with poor dental hygiene habits and a bunch of problems to fix, but then years later I've got things under control and I actually look forward to cleanings rather than dreading them. The staff is super friendly and welcoming, they listen to concerns (I told them on day one I need extra pain management of I'll feel everything, and they made sure to honor that), will answer questions about procedures, and are very quick - I've never had to wait more than a minute or two for an appointment.
Absolutely fantastic. Dr Eby is the most amazing dentist I’ve ever been to. He is talented, considerate and makes sure you are comfortable. His office has the most modern equipment and the best dental hygienists in Michigan.