Root Canal Therapy – Fitchburg, MA
A Misunderstood
Treatment That Can
Save Your Smile
You might panic a little bit when you hear us mention the words “root canal” because this infamous treatment has so many myths surrounding it. It’s used to treat tooth infections, which typically cause severe oral pain. In reality, root canal therapy from our Fitchburg, MA dentist actually helps cure dental discomfort and preserve natural teeth! If fear of the unknown is keeping you from visiting your emergency dentists in Fitchburg, trust that we can help you feel at-ease when you come to Super Dental.
Why Choose Super Dental for Root Canal Therapy?
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Convenient Evening
Appointment Times
Available -
Pain-Free
Root Canal
Therapy -
Prevent
Declining Oral
& Overall Health
What Happens During a Root Canal?
A root canal is typically a two-step process. During the first part, we'll administer a local anesthetic to the affected area, making it go completely numb. This way, you won’t have to feel an ounce of discomfort throughout the process. We’ll access the inner portion of your tooth, where the infected pulp is hidden, and remove it. After sanitizing the inner chamber of your tooth, we’ll rebuild its structure using a special substance called gutta percha. Finally, during the last part of the process, we’ll place a custom-crafted dental crown over the top of it to provide it with added strength and protection, allowing you to continue using it as you normally would.
Root Canal FAQs
There is no denying that root canals are one of the most feared dental procedures. Since this is largely due to misinformation, it’s natural for patients to have lots of questions about it. Don’t worry – we’re here to debunk common myths and ease your concerns along the way. Of course, if you have a specific question, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Otherwise, read on!
Can I Take Antibiotics Instead of Getting a Root Canal?
In short, the answer is no. While antibiotics can address infections in other parts of your body, they can not effectively target tooth infections. That’s because your bloodstream does not flow to the pulp of the tooth, which is where the diseased tissue lies. So, the only option (aside from extracting the tooth) is root canal therapy.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long for a Root Canal?
If you push off getting a root canal in hopes your tooth will heal on its own, you’ll end up sorely disappointed. The longer you wait to get treatment, the higher your chances are of needing a more extensive intervention, like a tooth extraction. That’s why it’s best not to wait – your smile and wallet will suffer in the process.
Can Root Canals Be Prevented?
Dental problems, like tooth decay, are largely preventable with the right best practices in place. First and foremost, make sure to implement a solid at-home oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily will help keep your teeth free of food particles, bacteria, and debris. Eating a well-balanced diet, limiting your sugar intake, and quitting unhealthy dental habits, like smoking, also fall into this category. Other best practices include wearing a mouthguard when playing sports and, perhaps most importantly, visiting your dentist biannually for a dental checkup and cleaning.
Are Root Canals Painful?
Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy isn’t painful. In fact, many patients find the experience no more cumbersome than a routine filling – we have powerful numbing agents to thank for that! The first step is always to numb the area of your mouth thoroughly. As a result, the only thing you’ll feel during your time in the treatment chair is the slight pressure of our dentist working. Even after the procedure, our team will provide you with aftercare instructions – like using a cold compress and taking OTC pain relievers – which are designed to help you stay as comfortable as possible throughout your recovery period.
Do Root Canals Ever Have to Be Redone?
Yes. Although the large majority of root canals are successful, there are some cases where they need to be redone. Saliva contaminating the tooth, narrow root canals, and new decay are a few reasons this is sometimes necessary.
Why Do I Need a Root Canal If My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt?
If a once painful toothache has gone radio silent, don’t play your happy music just yet – it’s likely the result of the infection successfully “killing” the tooth’s nerve. That’s why it’s important to listen to your dentist’s recommendation when they first bring it to your attention. Essentially, even if it doesn’t feel urgent, it certainly could be. Getting treatment sooner rather than later will not only save your tooth, but potentially the surrounding teeth as well!