Root Canal TherapySaving smiles and relieving pain with expert root canal care for a comfortable procedure.

Restoring Dental Health and Comfort

Comfortable & Effective Root Canal Therapy in Novi, MI

The mere mention of a “root canal” may cause concerns and apprehension for many patients. While root canals have historically had a reputation for being uncomfortable and unpleasant, that is no longer the case. Thanks to significant advancements in anesthesia techniques and dental procedures, undergoing a root canal is not the daunting experience it once was.

Root canal therapy is a highly effective and often necessary procedure designed to alleviate dental pain, save teeth, and restore oral health. Goldstein Dental Group provides you with a comfortable experience throughout the entire process.

Contact our practice today to request an appointment.

A woman expressing oral pain in a dentist's office

Is This for You

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

A root canal is necessary to save a tooth that has become infected or inflamed. This often occurs when a cavity has progressed deep into the tooth, reaching the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels.

Severe, persistent toothache: This pain may worsen when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth.
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures: This sensitivity may linger after the stimulus is removed.
Swollen or tender gums: The gums around the affected tooth may become inflamed.
Pimple-like bump or abscess on the gums: This is a sign of infection.
Discoloration of the tooth: The tooth may appear darker than usual.
A persistent bad taste in your mouth: This can indicate infection.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate dental attention at Goldstein Dental Group. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the infection from spreading and save your tooth.

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Root Canals

How the Root Canal Process Works

A root canal procedure is a relatively straightforward process that involves removing the infected pulp from the tooth and then filling and sealing the root canal. The procedure typically takes place in two separate treatment sessions.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

1. Initial Appointment: Our team will utilize digital X-rays to assess the extent of decay and damage within the tooth.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring a pain-free procedure.
3. Removal of the Infected Pulp: A small opening is drilled into the tooth’s crown, and the infected pulp is carefully removed using specialized dental instruments.
4. Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canals: The root canals are thoroughly cleaned and shaped to remove any remaining bacteria and debris.
5. Filling the Root Canals: The cleaned root canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material seals the canals and prevents reinfection.
6. Placement of a Temporary Filling: A temporary filling is placed over the opening to protect the tooth while it heals.
7. Placement of a Permanent Crown: Once the tooth has healed, a custom-made dental crown is placed over the tooth to restore its strength, shape, and function.

Man speaking with his dentist ahead of an examination

Frequently Asked Questions

Root Canal FAQ

How long does a root canal take?

Typically, a root canal takes between 30 and 60 minutes. This includes both the cleaning and filling of the tooth’s canals. If you have scheduling concerns about your root canal in Novi, MI, we can accommodate you.

How long does a root canal last?

A root canal can last many years, often a decade or more. However, the longevity of a root canal can vary depending on factors like oral hygiene habits and the quality of the restoration.

To further extend the life of your root-canaled tooth, consider getting a dental crown, a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged tooth to protect and strengthen it.

What happens if I don't get a root canal?

If you neglect a tooth with a severe infection, the infection can worsen and spread to the surrounding tissues, including the jawbone. This can lead to a painful abscess, bone loss, and ultimately, tooth loss.

In some cases, the infection can even spread to other parts of the body, causing systemic health problems.

What is the aftercare for a root canal?

We prioritize your comfort and recovery after a root canal procedure. Here are some essential aftercare tips to ensure a smooth healing process:

Avoid excessive chewing on the treated tooth: This helps prevent further irritation and allows the tooth to heal properly.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene: Brush your teeth gently twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
Be mindful of temperature sensitivity: For a few days, avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks, as they may cause temporary sensitivity.
Over-the-counter pain relief: If you experience mild discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed.
Regular dental check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor the health of your root-canaled tooth and ensure long-lasting results.

By following these guidelines, you can promote optimal healing and enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile.

Can I eat after a root canal?

While you may experience some sensitivity after a root canal, you can generally eat normally. However, it’s advisable to avoid hard, chewy, or hot foods for a few days to allow the treated tooth to heal properly. Soft foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes are good options during this time.

Schedule Root Canal Therapy in Novi, MI, Today

Don’t ignore the signs of tooth pain and sensitivity. At Goldstein Dental Group, our expert team is here to provide effective and gentle root canal therapy to alleviate your pain and restore your oral health.

Reach out to our dental practice in Novi, MI, today to request an appointment by giving us a call at (248) 927-2093 or filling out our online contact form below.