Sharp or lingering tooth pain may be more than just discomfort—it often signals an infection deep inside the tooth. At Medford Square Dentistry & Implants, we provide gentle, precise root canal therapy designed to eliminate infection, ease pain, and protect your natural tooth. Thanks to modern technology, root canals today are smooth, effective, and nothing to worry about.
Understanding Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is performed when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed—often due to injury, deep decay, or cracks. The pulp houses nerves and blood vessels, so once it's compromised, pain and further infection can follow. Root canal therapy clears the infection, disinfects the area, and seals the tooth to preserve it for the long haul.
Common Symptoms That May Require a Root Canal
- Ongoing or severe tooth pain
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen or sore gums near a tooth
- Tooth darkening or discoloration
- Small bump or boil near the tooth root
Noticing these symptoms? Early intervention can help avoid complications and save your tooth.
Advantages of Root Canal Treatment
- Fast Pain Relief: Get lasting relief from sharp, throbbing pain.
- Saves Your Tooth: Avoid extraction and keep your natural tooth structure.
- Restores Normal Function: Eat, chew, and speak normally again.
- Stops Spread of Infection: Prevent damage to other teeth and surrounding tissue.
- Maintains Smile Aesthetics: After a crown, your tooth looks and functions beautifully.
How We Perform Root Canals in Medford
- Comprehensive Exam: We start with a digital X-ray to evaluate the infection and plan treatment.
- Comfortable Numbing: Local anesthesia ensures you're relaxed and pain-free throughout.
- Thorough Cleaning: We remove the infected pulp, clean the inner canals, and sterilize the space.
- Sealing the Tooth: The canals are filled with a safe material to block bacteria from returning.
- Final Restoration: A durable crown is often placed to protect the tooth and restore function.
Is a Root Canal a Painful Procedure?
This is a common concern—but outdated! With modern techniques and local anesthesia, most patients say the procedure is as easy as getting a filling. In fact, root canal treatment is what relieves your pain, not what causes it.
Post-Treatment Care and Healing
- Minor soreness may last for a day or two—easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Wait to chew on the treated side until we place your permanent crown.
- Maintain brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits to keep your restored tooth healthy.
Root Canal FAQs
Q: How many appointments does it take?
A: Most root canals are completed in just one or two visits, depending on the complexity.
Q: Can a root canal fail?
A: While rare, reinfection can occur. We follow strict protocols and use advanced tools to ensure the highest chance of long-term success.
Q: What if I skip the treatment?
A: Without treatment, the infection can worsen, leading to abscesses, bone loss, or tooth extraction.
Restore Your Smile with Confidence
If you're dealing with tooth pain or infection, don't wait. At Medford Square Dentistry & Implants, we deliver compassionate and effective root canal care that gets you out of pain and back to smiling comfortably.
