Q: What is a root canal?

A: Root canal therapy refers to the removal, disinfection and sealing of the hollow space inside the tooth where the blood vessels and nerves reside.

Q: How do I know if I need a root canal?

A: The dentist needs to make the ultimate diagnosis, but some common signs include prolonged pain to hot or cold, or unprovoked pain, which could be a dull ache, sharp piercing pain, throbbing and pain when chewing or touching the tooth. Facial swelling can also occur and can have a quite rapid onset and dramatic appearance.

Q: After the root canal is completed, is the tooth “done”?

A: No. Most teeth in the back portion of your mouth require a crown to protect the tooth from fracturing. In some cases, teeth in the front area of your mouth, a simple filling can be placed over the access hole instead of a more expensive crown.

Q: Do root canals always solve the problem when a tooth hurts?

A: No. Root canal therapy is over 80 percent successful but sometimes, invisible fractures in the root of the teeth or unusual tooth anatomy prevent root canal therapy from being successful.

Q: What other options are available if my tooth needs a root canal and I don’t want one?

A: Extraction of the tooth is require when a root canal is not desired by the patient. The other option is to do nothing, which is not advised by this office.