The Most Common Questions Endodontic Patients Ask About Root Canals

     Endodontists perform many root canals every day, so most practitioners understand them inside and out. For patients, however, root canals often seem daunting and unfamiliar. Providing thorough and clear explanations can help patients feel comfortable enough to schedule their needed endodontic treatment, which not only improves their dental health, but also leads to a more lucrative endodontic practice. Increase profitability and efficacy by addressing endodontic patients’ five most common questions:

How do I know if I need a root canal?

       Many symptoms may point to the need for endodontic intervention. Teeth requiring root canals typically have had severe decay, infection, or traumatic injury, which may cause noticeable issues. Symptoms to watch for include a severe toothache, especially when chewing or applying pressure to the affected tooth; sensitivity to hot or cold; a persistent pustule on the gums near the tooth; discoloration of the tooth; and/or swelling or tenderness in the surrounding gum tissue. Patients experiencing any of these symptoms should seek help from a qualified endodontist as soon as possible, and the endodontist will confirm whether the tooth requires a root canal. Will a root canal hurt?  Root canals do not have to cause pain! Instead, modern procedures typically ease any discomfort created by infection or damage to the nerves inside the tooth pulp. Endodontists can also help relieve post-operative pain thanks to their special training in pain management. 

What can I expect during a root canal?

      Here is a summary of the procedure: First, an endodontist takes radiographs to help guide them through the internal tooth structure. Then, they numb the site and place a dental dam over the tooth to prevent spreading bacteria. Next, the endodontist drills an access hole in the chewing surface of the tooth. The internal structures of the tooth are then thoroughly cleaned, shaped, and filled in. Once the pulp chamber and roots have been filled, the dentist covers the opening with a temporary filling. After a few weeks, the patient will return for the final step – receiving a crown to permanently close the area. How long does recovery take?  Recovery time varies slightly from case to case. Generally, patients experience mild tenderness for a few days, usually limited to the treatment area. Endodontists address this with over the counter or prescription pain relievers. Such discomfort should not last more than a week. Patients who experience severe pain, significant swelling, or loss of a temporary filling, must contact their endodontist as soon as possible.

Why not just pull my tooth instead of a root canal? 

​      While some advanced cases require tooth extraction rather than a root canal, keeping original teeth reduces bone loss, and can prevent the need for costly implants or dentures. Tooth loss is also associated with higher rates of malnutrition, especially among elderly populations. Therefore, saving teeth with endodontic treatment can benefit a patient’s overall health and longevity. With that in mind, endodontists avoid extracting teeth whenever possible.