Your visit in our office will begin with a comprehensive consultation and examination. At that time, we will examine the area, take diagnostic films, decide whether your tooth is in need of root canal therapy, and review your treatment options.

If root canal therapy is indicated, a local anesthetic is used. We will remove the nerve and bacteria from your tooth, clean the infection and seal the roots of the tooth. You will have no pain during this procedure. It can usually be completed in one to two visits depending on the required treatment. Most patients return to their normal daily routine after treatment. After treatment is completed you will need to see your general dentist within one month for a final restoration. A treatment report will be sent to their office.

Generally, conventional root canal therapy is all that is needed. Success rates for a non-surgical treatment is above 90%. Occasionally, microsurgery may be needed to save a tooth. This technique can be useful in locating root fractures and treating canals that may not be able to be accessed through standard root canal therapy.The most common microsurgical procedure is called an apicoectomy.

It is unusual for patients to experience complications after conventional root canal therapy or microsurgery. However, if you do experience any problems, we are available to respond to you at any time.

It is normal for your tooth to be sore for the first few days after root canal therapy has been completed.  Initially, soft foods are recommended, as they will provide less discomfort during chewing.  The soreness may continue for up to one week.  Your tooth may feel differently the second and third weeks.  By the fourth week, it should feel like your other teeth.

You will be given Ibuprofen to aid post-operative healing and to help manage any discomfort.  It is an anti-inflammatory pain medication that will reduce the inflammation in the area that was treated.  If the Ibuprofen does not alleviate your symptoms, please call the office and let us know. 

A very small percentage of patients (less than 5%) experience post-operative swelling in the area that was treated.  If this happens, please call our office immediately to speak with the doctor.

For female patients, there may be an interaction between antibiotics and oral contraceptives.  If you are presently taking antibiotics or if our office has prescribed them, please use alternative means of birth control for your entire cycle that month.

If you have any questions or concerns following your treatment, please do not hesitate to call our office.  If your call is after office hours or on the weekend, the doctors cell phone number will be available.