Non Surgical Root Canal

What is a root canal?

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.

At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.

How is a root canal performed?

If you experience any of these symptoms, Dr. Apotsos, Dr. Steffas, Dr. Jonathan Tartara, or Dr. Taylor Erne will evaluate your tooth and determine the most appropriate treatment. In most cases where a root canal is needed, we will refer you to a trusted endodontic specialist for treatment. Endodontists have advanced training in diagnosing and treating diseases of the dental pulp and performing root canal therapy.

Root canal treatment involves removing the injured or infected pulp, thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system, and sealing the tooth to help prevent future infection. Treatment is typically completed under local anesthesia and may require one or more visits, depending on the complexity of the case. Root canal therapy has a high success rate, with approximately 90% of treated teeth remaining functional for many years.

If your tooth is not a good candidate for root canal treatment or the prognosis is unfavorable, the endodontic specialist will discuss their findings with you. If root canal treatment is unsuccessful or additional treatment is needed, our doctors will review your options with you and help determine the best course of action to restore your oral health. Root canal treatment is typically performed using local anesthesia to ensure your comfort, and additional sedation options may be available through the specialist if appropriate. Most patients are able to drive home after treatment and return to their normal daily activities the same day.

What happens after treatment?

After your root canal treatment has been completed by your endodontic specialist, you will return to our office for your permanent restoration, which is typically placed within a few weeks. Dr. Apotsos, Dr. Steffas,  Dr. Jonathan Tartara, or Dr. Taylor Erne will determine the most appropriate restoration—such as a filling or crown—to protect and strengthen your tooth.

Most patients recover without complications following root canal treatment. If you experience any concerns or unexpected symptoms after your procedure, please contact our office so we can evaluate the area and coordinate any necessary follow-up care with your specialist.

To help ensure the long-term success of your treatment, continue practicing good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and keeping up with your routine dental checkups and cleanings.