Root Canal Treatment

What is a root canal?

Root canal therapy 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 for dental implants or bridges.

At the center of your tooth is the pulp or nerve of the tooth. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels and nerve tissue 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 treatment performed?

If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. We use local anesthesia during the procedure to eliminate discomfort.

Some teeth that need root canal therapy are best treated by a dental specialist known as an endodontist, who has a microscope and additional tools to help render successful treatment.  Dr. Chad Colson and Dr. Jill Colson will evaluate your tooth and determine what is best for you.

What happens after treatment?

Once you see an endodontist for your root canal therapy, a record of your treatment will be sent to Dr. Chad Colson and Dr. Jill Colson.  Typically, the endodontist places a temporary sealant in the treated tooth.  Please contact our office for a follow-up, permanent restoration within 30 days of completion of root canal therapy. Drs. Jill and Chad Colson will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent decay issues with your newly treated tooth, continue to practice good dental hygiene and follow a low-sugar diet.