Hallmark Dental Logo
Root Canals Q&A

What are root canals?

Root canals are dental procedures that treat an infected or damaged tooth. 

During a root canal, your dentist makes a hole in your tooth and removes the diseased or damaged pulp — the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains the blood vessels and nerves. Your dentist then fills the tooth with a special dental filing and seals the hole.

Your tooth can survive without the pulp. But failure to treat any oral health condition that threatens the root of your tooth may lead to tooth loss.

There are many misconceptions surrounding root canals. These dental procedures are painless and aimed at saving your tooth. 

When are root canals needed?

Your dentist at Hallmark Dental explains when you need a root canal. They perform the procedure to treat:

  • Deep cavities
  • Cracked tooth
  • Issues with old filings

You need to schedule an appointment at Hallmark Dental if you notice an increase in tooth sensitivity or if you have tooth pain when chewing or biting. These are signs you may have a deep cavity that needs a root canal.

What happens during root canals?

Your dentist performs root canals at the office. The team does everything possible to make you feel comfortable during the procedure. 

They numb the gum surrounding the tooth needing treatment and may provide a sedative to help you relax. Then, they use a special tool to open the tooth and remove the pulp. Your dentist cleans the inside of your tooth and uses a disinfecting agent to kill any remaining germs.

Your dentist fills the inside of your tooth with a special dental material and closes the opening. They make an impression of your tooth for your permanent dental crown and place a temporary crown over the tooth to protect it.

You return to the office when your crown is ready for permanent placement. The crown is a cap for your tooth that reinforces and protects your natural tooth.

What happens after root canals?

You may feel sore for a day or two after your root canal, but you can return to work or school immediately after the dental treatment. The team recommends you not eat or drink until the numbing medication wears off.

Root canals save your natural teeth. For painless care from a friendly team, call Hallmark Dental or book an appointment online today.