Is a root canal painful?

No. Root canals are actually designed to relieve pain caused by an infected tooth. Any discomfort you feel after your procedure is mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long will my root canal take?

The length of your root canal will vary depending on the complexity of your case. However, most of our procedures can be completed in one to two appointments.

Can I save a tooth without a root canal?

Sometimes, fillings or crowns can address tooth decay or damage. However, if the infection has reached the tooth's pulp, a root canal is usually necessary to save your tooth.

How long does a tooth last after a root canal?

With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your root canal can last a lifetime!

What happens if I don't get a root canal?

If left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to severe pain, abscess formation, and, ultimately, tooth loss. In some cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body. If you suspect you need a root canal, book a consultation with Dr. Kirk today.

keyboard_return Restorative Dentistry Root Canals

Extreme Toothache Troubles?

Contrary to the myths, getting a root canal will bring you relief and shouldn’t be a cause for dread! We understand that the thought of dental work can be daunting, but our gentle approach and commitment to patient comfort make the process as stress-free as possible. Let us help you reclaim your oral health and happiness.

calendar_month Schedule an Appointment

Do You Think You Need a Root Canal?

When the pulp of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause severe pain. The best course of action is to have the pulp removed to prevent the infection from spreading and save the tooth.

Dr. Kirk will definitively diagnose whether or not you need a root canal, but you may notice certain symptoms that could indicate an issue.

These symptoms include:

You have a severe toothache.
You feel extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Your tooth is darkening of the tooth
You have swelling in your gums
You have a pimple-like bump on your gums

Understanding the Procedure and Recovery

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not a painful process. In fact, it’s often a relief from persistent toothache.

The anatomy of a tooth

Pulp: The soft tissue inside your tooth containing the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.
Dentin: The hard substance that forms the main part of the tooth.
Enamel: The hard, protective outer layer of your tooth.

How Does a Root Canal Work?

Our process begins with administering local anesthesia to ensure your absolute comfort. Then, Dr. Kirk will make a small opening in the tooth to access your inflamed pulp and carefully remove it.

The tooth’s roots are then meticulously cleaned and shaped to eliminate any bacteria before being filled with a rubber-like material to seal and protect them.

Dr. Kirk will then place a temporary filling to maintain your tooth’s function and appearance before you return for a permanent restoration through a filling or a crown.

Steps for The Best Recovery

Most of our patients only experience minimal discomfort after their root canal, but over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage any soreness you have. We also recommend staying away from chewing on your treated tooth until your final restoration is in place.

Root Canal Recovery Tips

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
Visit Dr. Kirk for routine dental examinations and cleanings.
Avoid biting hard objects to protect your treated tooth.
Consider a dental crown to strengthen and protect your tooth.