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Dr. Emily Tyler
Board Certified Endodontist
American Board of Endodontics
Dr. Bethany A. Douglas
Board Certified Endodontist
American Board of Endodontics
Services
All of our treatment is delivered with the aid of a surgical operating microscope which provides maximum visualization and remarkably precise treatment.
Here are the services we provide:
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Endodontic Re-treatment
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Microscopic Endodontic Surgery
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Emergency Dental Treatment
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Cracked Teeth
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Traumatic Dental Injuries
Insurances Accepted
Metlife
Delta Dental
Payments Accepted
American Express
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Endodontic Procedure
Endodontic treatment can often be performed in one or two visits and usually involves the following steps:
1. The endodontist examines and x-rays the tooth, then administers local anesthetic. After the tooth is numb, a small protective sheet called a “dental dam” is placed over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure.
2. The endodontist makes an opening in the crown of the tooth. Very small instruments are used to clean the pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals and to shape the space for filling.
3. After the space is cleaned and shaped, the endodontist fills the root canals with a biocompatible, rubber-like material called “gutta-percha.” The gutta-percha is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the root canals. In most cases, a temporary filling is placed to close the opening. The temporary filling will be removed by your dentist before the tooth is restored.
4. After the final visit, you must return to your dentist to have a crown or other restoration placed on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function.
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If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to hold the restoration in place, your dentist or endodontist may place a post inside the tooth.
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X-rays are taken during the procedure to determine the number, shape and precise length of canals. This is important to ensure that all canals are thoroughly disinfected.
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Root canal treatment may be performed over several appointments to allow time for anti-bacterial dressings to disinfect the canals. The use of local anaesthesia during treatment ensures that the entire procedure is pain free.
Root Canal Retreatment
Surgical Root Canal Treatment (Apicoectomy)
POST-OP
What Can I Expect After Root Canal Treatment?
Local anesthetics and proper pain management allow the procedure to be performed with little to no pain in most cases. For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive or sore, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can usually be relieved with over-the-counter medications such as Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin). Follow your endodontist's instructions carefully.
If a temporary filling was placed, avoid chewing for at least 30 minutes to allow the restoration to fully set. If local anesthetics were used, avoid chewing until the numbness has completely worn off. The unrestored tooth is susceptible to fracture, so you should see your dentist for a full restoration as soon as possible.
Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. However, if you have pain or pressure that lasts more than a few days, call your endodontist.