Dental Distinction provides root canals in Chester Springs, PA for all ages.

An average of 17 million teeth are restored and saved yearly thanks to root canal therapy. Dr. Jason Petkevis will typically suggest this general dentistry procedure when cracked, chipped, or untreated teeth have experience deep decay or nerve damage. In these cases, it can lead to inflammation and infection inside the pulp chamber. Root canals have a very high success rate for saving and preserving the functionality of natural teeth, often eliminating the need for tooth extraction.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

The term root canal refers to the area inside of the tooth. Most patients, however, use the term root canal as a general reference to a root canal procedure where the tooth is treated for disease or decay.

Root canal therapy is a treatment that fixes teeth with harmful infections or damage in the pulp chamber. The pulp chamber is inside the tooth and filled with dental pulp. Dental pulp is a soft tissue made up of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. The dental pulp provides nutrition to the tooth and has sensory functions, which enable it to feel hot and cold.

If Dr. Petkevis finds an infection in the pulp chamber or damage present, he will recommend root canal therapy. This common dental treatment involves removing the infected or damaged pulp and filling the chamber with a special material.

A root canal will help preseve your tooth and stop pain or swelling. You may need root canal therapy if you have a nasty toothache, a large cavity, or a severe infection in your tooth. You must receive this treatment or risk dealing with more health issues. Without treatment, the infection in the tooth can disperse to other parts of your body, and you risk losing your tooth.

Root canals have a negative reputation, often scaring patients because of the rumor that they are very painful. However, this procedure will actually relieve your pain and save your tooth.

What are root canal symptoms?

Many patients do not experience any symptoms that would indicate the need for a root canal procedure. Other patients, however, may experience painful symptoms, including:

• Severe toothache or tooth pain, particularly when chewing or biting
• Prolonged tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods and drinks
• Discoloration of the tooth (darkening)
• Soreness or tenderness to the gums surrounding the affected tooth

About the Root Canal Procedure

A root canal is a simple, pain-free dental procedure that Dr. Petkevis can normally complete in just one visit. After a comprehensive examination, Dr. Petkevis will determine if you need root canal therapy or not. If you have a severe infection or extensive damage, he may need to extract the tooth.

To begin a root canal procedure, Dr. Petkevis will first numb the area near the affected tooth. This step ensures you will not feel pain during your appointment. He will then create a small opening on the tooth so he can get to the infected or damaged pulp.

Dr. Petkevis will drill a small hole, usually in the back of the tooth. He will use special dental instruments to take out all the infected material. Then, he will thoroughly clean and shape the inside of the tooth to ensure all of the infection or damage is gone.

Once your tooth is clean, Dr. Petkevis will fill the pulp chamber with a special material to seal it and prevent further infection. We will place a temporary dental filling to protect the tooth until you are ready for a dental crown. After a root canal, some people will need a crown to further protect the tooth and ensure its longevity.

With proper care, teeth that have received root canals will function normally for many years.

Root Canal FAQs

A root canal is a common procedure for tooth infections. Here, we address common questions surrounding this common dental procedure. Our goal is to provide you with information about root canal therapy. We feel it helps reduce anxiety if patients know what to expect during a root canal and what to do after the procedure. Call our office if you have further questions or concerns.

Does a root canal hurt?

The pain from a root canal comes from the infection itself. The root canal procedure will relieve that pain and start the healing process. A root canal procedure feels similar to having a dental filling placed, so it is relatively painless.

How do I care for my tooth after root canal therapy?

After a root canal, you need to take care of your tooth so it can heal properly. Avoid biting hard on that side and stick to soft foods. Brush and floss gently around the area to keep it clean. If Dr. Petkevis prescribes any medication, please take them as directed. Attend all your follow-up visits to ensure you are healing well. If you have any pain or swelling, contact our office right away.

What if I don’t have the root canal treatment?

The alternative to root canal treatment is tooth extraction. When considering a root canal vs. extraction, it is important to remember that the replacement options become more complicated once a tooth is lost. In most cases, Dr. Petkevis will support the choice to conserve the natural tooth. During your consultation and examination, he will help you to make the best choice for your long-term health and happiness.

What does a root canal cost near me?

The cost of root canal procedures depends on your specific circumstances, tooth location, and more. We accept most dental insurance and can submit claims on your behalf. We also offer flexible payment options to help you cover the root canal cost.

Do I need to take off work for a root canal?

We recommend taking the day of the procedure off. This gives you time to rest and avoids embarrassing talking moments when your mouth is still numb. Most patients can go back to work the day after the procedure.

What should I avoid after a root canal?

Avoid hot foods and beverages, as these can increase pain and swelling around the root canal site. Foods that are high in sugar encourage infection in this already vulnerable area. You should also avoid tobacco and alcohol, as these both impact the healing process and can cause complications.

Do I need a root canal?

The most telling symptom is pain and sensitivity, particularly in a specific tooth. It may hurt to chew and bite and eat hot or cold foods. You may also notice that your tooth is darker because of the infection. Any tooth pain is cause for concern, as many different things can cause it. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, call us immediately.

Schedule a Dental Exam

A root canal is a common dental procedure in our dentist office near you. Many factors can cause tooth pain. Sometimes, a root canal may not be necessary. It is up to you to visit your dentist in Chester Springs so that we can figure out the appropriate treatment. Schedule a dental exam online, or give us a call today.