Stopping Tooth Pain With Root Canals in Connecticut

Root canal treatment is a highly effective procedure with a good prognosis for success.
Stopping Tooth Pain With Root Canals in Connecticut
Root Canals

Why Root Canals?

Getting root canal treatment rather than an extraction has many advantages. It can reduce and eliminate pain to eat and drink properly. It also reduces the risks of further tooth damage, leading to more complex and expensive treatments, like dental implants, to replace missing teeth.

After a root canal process, if you maintain proper oral hygiene, your root canal can last for many years.

Other advantages of getting a root canal:

  • Improves chewing
  • Protects other teeth from being removed and maintains the integrity of your teeth

What to Expect

BeforeTreatment

A root canal may be needed when you face problems, including decay that has reached the living tissue inside the tooth (tooth pulp), infection, dental abscess inside the tooth or the root tip, or injury to the tooth.

Symptoms that can indicate you may need a root canal procedure include:

  • A dental abscess (or pimple) on the gums
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold
  • Severe toothache pain
  • Swelling or tenderness

Before your root canal, let your dentist know about any symptoms you are experiencing.

DuringTreatment

A root canal procedure typically requires one to three appointments and is performed by a dentist or an endodontist (a root canal specialist).

  • Before the dentist begins the procedure, an x-ray of the tooth will be taken.
  • The dentist will numb the tooth with a local anesthetic. Once your tooth is numb, the dentist will use a series of root canal files to access the infected area.
  • The dentist will remove the dental pulp, nerve tissue, and any bacteria from the infected tooth. If there is tooth decay present, this is also removed. Once the tooth is cleaned thoroughly, the tooth is sealed with a permanent root canal filling.
  • At the next appointment, the roots and inside the cavity of the tooth are filled and sealed. A root canal filling is placed to cover the opening of the tooth.

AfterTreatment

After a root canal, the tooth should have a dental crown (cap) set to help protect the tooth and prevent it from cracking or breaking.

After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will typically subside as the inflammation reduces and the tooth heals. Your dentist will provide you with care instructions after each dental checkup. Remember that good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help maintain your teeth.

Your First Visit

Usually, a root canal can be resolved within one visit. Your root canal dentist will prepare you for this visit with a consultation, which will take place before the actual procedure.
Modern Dentistry

Modern Dentistry

All the latest technology can be found at both our Groton and Willimantic dental offices.
Judgment-Free Office

Judgment-Free Office

We're here to help you feel confident in your smile. We provide a safe, judge-free zone for any dental issue or concern you have.
On Your Schedule

On Your Schedule

Taking care of your dental health should fit within your schedule. We are open late and on weekends so you can get the care you need.

Insurance
and Financing

Are you worried about the cost of a visit to get partial or full dentures? Don't panic. We work with over 200 dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment plans for your convenience.

No Insurance?
No Problem.

Making An Appointment Is Easy

Don't have insurance? That's not a problem with us. We offer payment plans and accept most major credit cards, personal checks, and more.
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know if you need a root canal?

You may experience severe pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, or swelling. However, sometimes no symptoms will be present. It's important to contact your dentist if you suspect your tooth has decayed significantly.

What happens when you avoid root canal treatment?
If you need a root canal, you should not avoid dental care. It is best to treat the infected tooth promptly for the best outcome. If left untreated, the infection can spread further and cause tooth loss.