What to expect with endodontic therapy or root canal treatment

At Silsby Family Dental of Albion, New York, Dr. Evan Silsby and his team believe in providing a varied selection of services for patients of all ages. This family-friendly practice offers specialized treatments, including root canal therapy or “endodontic therapy.” Instead of referring patients to another dentist in the area, Dr. Silsby has the experience and skills to provide this care, building on his trust and positive relationships with those who visit his office. Let’s look more into endodontic treatment and how it works to restore the smile.

What is endodontic therapy?

Our team best describes root canal therapy as a procedure performed to save a natural tooth that has been severely infected or damaged. Endodontic therapy involves the removal of the tooth’s inner pulp, which houses nerves and blood vessels. The process includes cleaning and disinfecting the internal areas of the tooth, followed by filling and sealing it to prevent any future infections.

What are some signs that I may need root canal therapy?

This procedure is often performed for patients who show signs of dental issues, that include:  

  • Intense toothache  
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures  
  • Swelling or tenderness in the gums  
  • Tooth discoloration  

If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms, it is vital that you schedule an appointment with Dr. Silsby as soon as possible.

What happens during the root canal procedure?

The first step in our root canal procedure is numbing the affected area with local anesthesia to ensure that our patient feels no pain or discomfort during the treatment. Once the area is numb, Dr. Silsby creates an opening in the top of the tooth to access the inner pulp. Using specialized tools, he carefully removes all infected and damaged tissue from the inside of the tooth, then thoroughly cleans and disinfects the area.

After cleaning and shaping the inside of the tooth, Dr. Silsby fills it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and seals it with a dental filling. In certain cases, a temporary crown may be created and placed to protect the tooth until a permanent crown can be made. The final step is placing a custom dental crown over the treated natural tooth to restore its shape, function, and appearance.

What are the benefits of undergoing root canal therapy?

Our root canal procedure is as follows:

  • Affordable
  • Effective
  • Pain-free
  • Prevents tooth loss
  • Preserves natural teeth
  • Restores oral health and function

Who can I reach if I need to inquire about root canal therapy?

Silsby Family Dental of Albion, New York, proudly offers endodontic treatment. If you need treatment, we invite you to request a consultation visit and initial evaluation with our team. Our patients can talk to our front office about making an appointment by calling (585) 589-4325.