DULUTH DENTAL SERVICES
Endodontics
What is endodontic care?
Tooth pain can feel debilitating. When the inside of your tooth becomes infected or damaged, that pain can affect everything, including how you eat, sleep, or even think clearly.
We've helped many patients find relief through endodontic treatment. Our goal is simple: save your natural tooth, resolve your pain, and get you back to doing what you love.
Endodontics is the area of dentistry that deals with the inside of your tooth. Each tooth contains a pulp, which is made up of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It's located in the center of your tooth and extends down through the roots in narrow channels (hence the term root canals).
When this pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, you could experience tooth pain. Endodontic treatment removes the damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further problems.
If you're experiencing severe tooth pain or have been told you might need a root canal, we're here to help.
Types of Endodontic Care
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Root Canal
If an infected or permanently damaged tooth has enough of its natural structure, a root canal is the best possible treatment. With this procedure, we access the pulp chamber, carefully remove the damaged tissue, clean and shape the canals, and fill them with a special material called gutta-percha. A crown will then protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
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Endodontic Retreatment
Sometimes a previously treated tooth doesn't heal properly or becomes reinfected. This can happen if new decay develops, the seal breaks down, or canals were missed during the original treatment. Retreatment involves reopening the tooth, removing the old material, cleaning the canals again, and resealing them. We can often save the tooth with this approach.
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Apicoectomy
When infection persists at the tip of the tooth root even after root canal treatment, we make a small incision in your gum, remove the infected tissue, and seal the root canal from the bottom. This procedure is typically done by an endodontist, which is a dental specialist with extensive additional training in root canal treatments.
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Pulpotomy
A pulpotomy is performed on children's baby teeth when decay reaches the pulp but hasn't affected the roots. We remove the infected portion of the pulp in the crown of the tooth while leaving healthy pulp in the roots intact. This keeps the baby tooth functional until it naturally falls out. It's a simpler procedure than a full root canal that works well on baby teeth.
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Pulp Capping
Pulp capping treats a pulp that’s exposed but not yet infected. If you have a deep cavity or crack, we can sometimes place medication directly on the exposed area to help it heal and protect it from infection. This procedure works best when done right away, before infection sets in. It can prevent the need for a root canal.
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Treatment of Dental Trauma
If you've had a tooth knocked loose, pushed out of position, or fractured, we can often save it with endodontic treatment. Quick action is key with dental injuries. The sooner we treat the tooth, the better the outcome.
Why choose Chester Creek Dental for endodontics?
For the past 40 years, we’ve helped patients heal through countless root canals. We take our time to do it right, focusing not only on the outcomes, but on keeping you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Friendly and Focused
We explain everything clearly, answer all your questions, and support you through the entire process. Your comfort and happiness matter to us.
Experienced Professionals
Our experienced dental team excels in helping you regain comfort and ease when it comes to your oral health. Everyone here takes pride in sharing their expertise while welcoming you to our clinic with kindness and empathy.
Advanced Technology
We’re committed to offering modern technology and treatment while never forgetting the importance of great patient care. Every tool and technique we use is chosen because of the positive outcomes it can deliver for patients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Endodontic Care
Is my tooth going to hurt after the root canal?
You will likely experience some discomfort after the numbing wears off. We recommend taking ibuprofen and/or acetaminophen for a couple of days after root canal treatment. The tooth might be tender to bite on as well, but that will subside as the area around the tooth heals.
How successful are root canal treatments?
In general, root canals are very successful. Studies have shown success rates of anywhere from 86-98% overall.
How will I know if I need a root canal?
The dentist will examine the area of concern and likely take two different types of x-rays. We will then perform testing on several teeth in the area and narrow the problem down to one tooth.
We will discuss the benefits and risks as well as the long-term prognosis for the tooth.
If we do recommend a root canal treatment, it is up to you whether you choose to pursue it or not. Extraction is always an option if you would rather do that.
What is the next step after my root canal?
A root canal is only the first of three steps to restoring your tooth back to health.
The second step is called a core buildup, which is a large filling that provides structure and fills the gap in the tooth created by the root canal treatment.
The third and final step is the crown. Having a crown placed over a root canal-treated tooth is extremely important in order to protect the tooth and add strength back.
We always want to check on the healing and success of the root canal treatment over the following months and years. This usually involves taking an occasional x-ray of the tooth for close examination.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals take one to two hours. The time depends on which tooth needs treatment and how many root canals it has. Front teeth usually have one canal and are quicker. Back molars have multiple canals and take longer. We'll give you an estimated time for your specific case.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
Usually, yes. Root canal treatment removes the blood supply to the tooth, which can make it more brittle over time. A crown protects the tooth from fracturing. Back teeth almost always need crowns because they handle heavy chewing forces. Front teeth sometimes can be restored with just a filling. We'll recommend what's best for your situation.
How much does endodontic treatment cost?
Costs vary depending on which tooth needs treatment and how complex the procedure is. Front teeth are generally less expensive than molars. Your dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost. We'll provide a clear estimate before beginning treatment. Remember that saving your natural tooth is usually less expensive in the long run than extraction and replacement.
What happens if I don't get a root canal?
The infection won't go away on its own. It will get worse. You might develop an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that can cause severe pain and swelling. The infection can spread to other areas. Eventually, you'll lose the tooth. The pain will likely become unbearable. Getting treatment sooner rather than later is always the best route, so please call us as soon as you notice any of these changes.
Can all teeth be saved with a root canal?
Not always, but many can be. Sometimes a tooth is too damaged or the infection is too severe. If the tooth has a crack that extends below the gum line, it might not be savable. We'll evaluate your tooth carefully and let you know honestly whether treatment is likely to succeed.
Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?
The main alternative is extraction, or removing the tooth completely. This eliminates the infection but leaves you with a gap. You'd then need to decide whether to replace the tooth with an implant, bridge, or leave the space empty. Saving your natural tooth with a root canal is usually the better choice.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
The most common sign is spontaneous pain, or pain that comes about all on its own. Other signs include prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, darkening or discoloration of a tooth, swelling and tenderness in nearby gums or a pimple-like bump on your gums. Sometimes there are no symptoms. We might discover the need during a routine checkup. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, call us for an evaluation.
Let’s get to the root of the issue.
If you have any concerns about your teeth, call us or make an appointment. We’d be happy to take a closer look and recommend the best endodontic treatment for you.
Our Dental Office
1324 E 1st Street
Duluth, MN 55805
Hours
Monday–Friday
8am–5pm
Phone
(218) 724-1332