O'Leary Dental

While a root canal can be a scary procedure for some, it’s an essential part of dental care. 

A root canal procedure cleans and refills the interior of the tooth, thereby preventing serious pain and permanent damage to decayed or infected teeth. At O’Leary Dental, we’ll guarantee the process goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible!

When Should You Get A Root Canal?

A root canal becomes necessary when tooth decay, injury, or infection reaches the soft inner tissue (pulp) of your tooth. You should consider seeing Dr. O’Leary for a root canal examination if you experience the following symptoms:

• Severe tooth pain when chewing or applying pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Discoloration of the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums
• A persistent pimple on the gums

Overview of the Root Canal Procedure 

The root canal procedure involves carefully removing damaged pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning the canal, then filling and sealing it to prevent future infection. The entire process typically takes 1-2 appointments and is performed under local anesthesia, with most people able to return to their normal activities the next day.

During a root canal procedure, Dr. O’Leary will:

1. Take detailed X-rays to examine the tooth structure
2. Administer local anesthesia for your comfort
3. Remove infected pulp and thoroughly clean the canal
4. Seal the tooth with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha
5. Place a temporary filling to protect the tooth
6. Complete the process with a permanent crown for lasting protection

Benefits of A Root Canal

While some people may dread their root canal procedure, it provides a plethora of benefits, primarily saving your natural tooth and eliminating the pain caused by infection or damage. 

Here is a breakdown of the advantages:

• Eliminates pain and infection
• Saves your natural tooth
• Prevents the need for extraction
• Restores normal bite force and sensation
• Provides a long-lasting solution
• Maintains your natural smile

By preserving your original tooth rather than extracting it, a root canal maintains your natural bite, prevents neighboring teeth from shifting, and helps avoid the need for more extensive dental work like bridges or implants.

Our team at O’Leary Dental successfully performs root canal procedures on the daily, utilizing trusted technology and years of expertise to guarantee comfortable, effective treatments that restore your oral health and get you back to smiling confidently.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect you may need a root canal, get in touch with us and we’ll walk you through every step of the process!