FAQs
- What are common signs and symptoms of potential root canal treatment?
- How can endodontic treatment help me?
- Will I feel pain during or after treatment?
- After my treatment, will I need to return for follow-up appointments?
- Will I be able to drive or return to work after my procedure?
What are common signs and symptoms of potential root canal treatment?
Although many cases may present with absolutely no symptoms, general indications for treatment include but are not limited to: prolonged temperature sensitivity, tooth discoloration, tenderness of the tooth or surrounding gum tissue and swelling.
How can endodontic treatment help me?
The sole purpose of endodontic treatment is to remove bacteria that cause inflammation or infection. With the advent of modern techniques and current best evidence, most root canal therapy can be completed in one visit. After completion of treatment, you will need to see your general dentist within one month to have a long-term restoration placed to seal the tooth from recontamination.
Will I feel pain during or after treatment?
Thanks to today's anesthetics, most procedures cause no pain. The best predictor of post-procedural pain is pre-procedural pain. If the patient experiences post-procedural pain, it will peak in 1-2 days and continuously dissipate thereafter. We implement all necessary steps in order to manage post-procedural discomfort. This sometimes includes, but is not limited to, the use of anti-inflammatory medications.
After my treatment, will I need to return for follow-up appointments?
In order to ensure that you are receiving the best treatment available, we always recommend follow-up appointments to ensure that the treatment rendered was successful. Typical follow-up times are at 6 months and 1 year but may vary depending on the scope of treatment.
Will I be able to drive or return to work after my procedure?
In most cases, the same local anesthetic is used just as if you were to receive general dental work such as fillings. The anesthetic generally lasts for 1 to 3 hours but should not affect overall cognitive abilities. Surgeries involve an extended healing time and may require rest for the remainder of the day. Each case is different and post-operative care will be thoroughly explained on the day of treatment.