ROOT CANAL THERAPY

A root canal is performed on a tooth that is so severely decayed or infected that it is in danger of being lost. Dr. Lea, Dr. Smithson, and Dr. Studebaker are endodontic specialists with over 30 combined years of clinical experience and have performed many thousands of successful root canal procedures, so you know you’re in the best of hands. They use today’s latest microsurgical techniques along with an extra-gentle touch.

The ABC’s of root canal therapy

Dr. Lea, Dr. Smithson, and Dr. Studebaker perform root canal therapy as an in-office procedure under local anesthesia, which is administered with an ultra-gentle technique for your comfort. If you are fearful or anxious about dental care, our doctors offer oral sedation and nitrous oxide. After gently removing the infected or inflamed pulp, they carefully shape and disinfect the inside of the canal. They use a state-of-the-art electronic apex locator to aid in determining the precise location of the root end. The canal is then filled and sealed with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. For your comfort, our doctors use virtually silent hand pieces that offer minimum vibration. Plus, the ultrasonic equipment features diamond-coated tips, the small size of which preserves the tooth’s structure and provides more precise treatment.

What happens after root canal therapy?

Dr. Lea, Dr. Smithson, and Dr. Studebaker can perform most root canals in a single visit; the more difficult cases might require a second appointment. Once your root canal therapy has been completed, a written report will be sent to your referring dentist promptly. The remaining tooth structure may be weaker than before, therefore you should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until your dentist provides you with a permanent restoration (filling, onlay or crown).

Don’t avoid getting your root canal

If you put off getting the endodontic care you need because of fear, you are putting the health of your smile at risk. Saving a tooth with root canal therapy can save you lots of time and money if you consider the alternatives. If you lose your tooth, the gap left behind needs to be addressed with either a fixed bridge or dental implant.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call our office at 206-633-3636 today!