About Root Canal Treatment

An infected root canal can cause you a significant amount of discomfort and hassle. If you need root canal treatment near Franklin, Ohio, or Lebanon, Ohio, Drs. Haas, Haas and Zuptich can examine your tooth and treat any infected areas to restore your comfort and your smile. We encourage you to contact Family Dentistry, Inc. so that our dentists can address any dental pain you may be experiencing.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Commonly called a root canal, root canal treatment is a type of endodontic therapy that is often recommended if the tooth pulp and nerves become infected or damaged. This may occur if injury or decay reaches deep into the tooth, past the outer enamel layer. When left untreated, this type of infection and disease may cause the tooth to die and necessitate tooth extraction.

To restore the health of the tooth and avoid the need for extraction, our skilled dentists will remove the infected and injured tissues from within the tooth, clean the tooth, and fill it with a medicated material. We will then cap the tooth with a restoration, such as a dental crown, to return the tooth to its original shape and structure. In most cases, a root canal can be completed in only one or two comfortable visits to our office.

Root canal treatment has a reputation for being a painful treatment. In reality, root canal treatment can often be completed with minimal discomfort thanks to advanced techniques, tools, and anesthesia.

When Is Root Canal Treatment Needed?

A root canal may be recommended when the inner tissue of a tooth (known as the pulp) becomes infected or severely inflamed. This is often the result of deep decay, a cracked tooth, or repeated dental procedures. Common symptoms you may notice include persistent pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or discomfort when chewing.

Without timely treatment, the infection can spread and create more severe complications. A root canal removes the damaged tissue, relieves pain, and preserves the natural tooth, helping restore comfort and long-term oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a root canal painful?

• Modern root canal treatment is comparable to getting a standard dental filling. With local anesthesia, patients usually feel minimal discomfort, making it a relatively painless procedure

How long does the procedure take?

• Most root canal treatments can be completed in one visit, lasting 60 to 90 minutes. More complex cases may require additional time or appointments.

Will I need a crown after a root canal?

• In most cases, yes. A crown helps restore the tooth’s structure, strength, and appearance, especially for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces.

What is the recovery like?

• Mild soreness or sensitivity can be common for a few days, but most patients return to normal activities right away. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient for relieving discomfort.

Are there any risks associated with root canal treatment?

• Complications are rare, but they may include reinfection if undetected canals exist or if a restoration is delayed. Regular dental visits and timely placement of a crown help minimize risks.

How can I avoid the need for root canal treatment in the future?

• Good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, prompt treatment of cavities, and wearing protective gear during sports can help prevent damage and decay that could lead to root canal treatment.

Learn More About Root Canal Treatment

To learn more about our root canal treatment and to make an appointment at our dental office in Lebanon, OH, or Franklin, OH, please call us or request an appointment online today!