Root Canal Therapy in Germantown, MD

Endodontics is the science of dentistry that cares for the inside of the tooth. The soft pulp, which is alive with blood vessels and tissue, is protected by the hard outer covering of the tooth. The root canals are passageways for nerves and blood vessels, and they run from the pulp center into the jawbone. When injury or decay reaches past the outer enamel layer into the pulp of the tooth, untreated infection can create pain and eventually kill the tooth.

Root canal therapy is designed to alleviate pain and save natural teeth. Are you looking for a dentist who provides exceptional endodontic care? Contact our Germantown dental team today, and we would be glad to assist.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

There are some reliable signs that will indicate you need endodontic therapy. These include sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, pain in the tooth while chewing, an abscess near the tooth, a constant toothache or discomfort in the bone, swelling or tenderness of the gums near the tooth, or a graying of the tooth. Of course, the best way to determine your next course of action is by visiting our Germantown dental team.

Are root canals painful?

Our dental team will work hard to make your treatment comfortable and effective. Root canals have the reputation of being painful; however, high-quality endodontic care is designed to ease your pain, not create it. With advanced technology, precise equipment, and effective sedation, getting a root canal is no more intense than receiving a filling. The root canal procedure is common and routine, and creates less trauma than a tooth extraction.

What is the process of getting a root canal like?

The first step is to ensure the patient’s comfort. The area will be numbed so you won’t feel any pain. Next, we create a small opening in the crown of the tooth in order to access the pulp. We’ll carefully extract the infected pulp and clean the infection from the root canal. A medication to kill harmful bacteria and prevent additional infections will be used to flush out the area, then it will be sealed to stop anything else from entering the root canal. Often, a dental crown is also necessary to act as a protective cap to strengthen the tooth and prevent future infection.

What is recovery like after a root canal?

Post-treatment, we recommend rest and over-the-counter pain medication if you experience discomfort. Stick to eating soft foods and drink plenty of water but avoid using straws. You should brush and floss as usual and avoid the treated area as much as you can for a few days. You can gently rinse your mouth with a mixture of warm water and salt to aid in healing. Most patients can expect to be back to many of their regular activities in a day or so. Should you have any questions or concerns for our team at any point during this time, feel free to contact us, and we will be glad to assist.