What to Expect at Your Endodontic Appointment


Consultation


During a root canal procedure, the crown of the tooth is opened, allowing the doctor to access the infected root canal. The pulp tissue in the infected root canal is removed and the canals cleaned. A series of files is used to remove any remaining tissue, slightly enlarge the canals, and smooth the walls of the canals. Once any infection has completely cleared up, which could take a few days or longer, the root canals are sealed with a material called gutta percha or with root canal sealer to prevent bacteria or debris from entering the root canals and causing further infection. Finally, the crown of the tooth is sealed with a filling or crown.


Endodontic Therapy


During a root canal procedure, the crown of the tooth is opened, allowing the doctor to access the infected root canal. The pulp tissue in the infected root canal is removed and the canals cleaned. A series of files is used to remove any remaining tissue, slightly enlarge the canals, and smooth the walls of the canals. Once any infection has completely cleared up, which could take a few days or longer, the root canals are sealed with a material called gutta percha or with root canal sealer to prevent bacteria or debris from entering the root canals and causing further infection. Finally, the crown of the tooth is sealed with a filling or crown.



After the Procedure


Upon completion of your endodontic therapy, a temporary filling will be placed in the access opening. Sometimes we are able to place the permanent restoration for you. If you need a permanent restoration, your dentist should place one for you in a timely fashion, generally 1 to 3 weeks after treatment has been completed.


Follow Up Treatment 


Following the procedure, you can expect some soreness in your tooth or jaw for a few days, possibly up to a few weeks. We will prescribe any medication that you might need to relieve the discomfort or swelling. The discomfort that you may experience should not alarm you. This is a normal reaction and will not affect the success of your treatment. Should any excessive discomfort or swelling occur, call us as soon as possible.