Root Canal Treatments for Patients in Erie, PA
Root canal treatment is a remarkable therapy with a very high rate of success. It involves removing the diseased tissue, halting the spread of infection, and restoring the healthy portion of the tooth. Root canal treatment is designed to save a problem tooth.
Before the root canal procedure was developed and gained acceptance, the only alternative for treating a diseased tooth was removing the entire tooth in a tooth extraction procedure.
Most patients who have a root canal treatment experience little or no discomfort or pain. They enjoy a restored tooth that can last almost as long as its healthy original. Root canal therapy usually entails one to three visits. Contact Lee Simon in Erie, PA to schedule your first root canal appointment today.
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What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure
A tooth X-ray
This shows the shape of the root canals and helps the dentist check for signs of infection in the bone close to the tooth.
General numbing
The area of the root canal procedure will be anesthetized although generally there is no need for this as the nerve tissue is already dead.
Tooth drilling
The dentist drills access into the tooth and removes the decayed nerve, as well as pulp and bacteria. The area is then cleaned.
Sealing of the tooth
This may be done immediately or in about a week, depending on whether there was an infection in the tooth. If you have to wait, a temporary filling will be installed.
Relief after the healing period
Once the healing period from the procedure has passed, you can expect to feel a tremendous sense of relief now that you no longer have the pain of an infected tooth.
Further restoration of the tooth
This is often a needed final step in which restoration, such as installing a crown, is done to return the tooth to full functionality.
Root Canal vs. Extraction: Which is right for me?
When it comes to a root canal vs extraction, we are often sought out for a second opinion by patients who have been told they need to have an extraction procedure. In many cases, following consultation and examination, we can save the tooth with a root canal procedure – a big relief to anyone who has been told extraction was their only option.
Reach out to Lee Simon in Erie, PA today to schedule your first root canal appointment or to get a trusted opinion on a tooth extraction diagnosis you have received elsewhere.Have Questions?
A single root canal procedure typically lasts between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the severity of your case. If multiple root canals are being done, then the average time is in the region of two hours. Your case may also require that the procedure be done in stages in separate appointments.
Don't see your question answered? Reach out to Lee Simon in Erie, PA today!