Root Canal Treatment Specialist in Toledo, OH

A root canal is needed when the soft tissue inside the tooth, known as the pulp, becomes infected or damaged. Some scenarios where a root canal may be needed include:

Deep tooth decay: Root canal treatments address tooth decay in the innermost layer of the tooth.

Dental trauma: If a tooth experiences a significant injury or trauma, such as a crack or fracture, it can damage the pulp, requiring a root canal.

Abscess: An untreated tooth infection can progress into a dental abscess. Root canal therapy is often necessary to clean out the infection and save the tooth.

Pulpitis: Pulpitis refers to inflammation of the dental pulp due to various causes, such as extensive decay or trauma. Root canals are often necessary to alleviate pain and preserve the tooth.

If you’re experiencing dental pain or other symptoms, it’s important to be aware of potential signs that could indicate the need for root canal treatment. These symptoms include:

Persistent toothache: A severe and persistent toothache is often a sign of infection or inflammation in the tooth pulp.

Temperature sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks can indicate pulp damage.

Swelling: Swelling in the gums around the affected tooth is usually present if an infection has spread.

Tooth discoloration: A tooth that has become darker or discolored compared to the surrounding teeth can indicate pulp damage or decay.

Pressure sensitivity: If you experience pain or sensitivity when biting or applying pressure to the tooth, it could be a sign of pulp inflammation.

Gum abscess: The development of a pimple-like swelling on the gums, known as a gum abscess, can indicate an infection requiring root canal treatment.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s advised to consult a dental professional, as they can evaluate your condition and provide appropriate treatment. Early intervention lowers the chances of further complications and improves the likelihood of saving the affected tooth.

During a root canal procedure, Dr. Nadeem Khan DDS used local anesthesia to numb the area around the treated tooth. This ensures you don’t experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia is administered through an injection and it effectively numbs the nerves in the vicinity of the tooth.

In most cases, local anesthesia is sufficient to keep you comfortable during the root canal treatment. However, if you have severe dental anxiety or if the procedure is more complex, the dental professional may recommend additional sedation options to help you relax.

The decision to use sedation during a root canal depends on various factors, including your level of anxiety, the complexity of the procedure, and the dental professional’s recommendation. It’s important to discuss your concerns and preferences with our team before your treatment so we can determine the best approach to ensure your comfort.

Root canal treatment involves three stages:

Diagnosis and preparation: First, a dental professional will examine your tooth, evaluate your symptoms, and take X-rays to determine if a root canal is necessary. Once the need for a root canal is confirmed, the dental professional will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. They will then place a rubber dam around the tooth to isolate it and keep it clean and dry during the procedure.

Cleaning and shaping: At this stage, the dental professional will create an opening in the tooth’s crown to reach the infected pulp inside. Using specialized tools, they will carefully remove the infected pulp, clean the root canals, and shape them to prepare for filling.

Filling and sealing: After the canals are thoroughly cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material is placed in the canals and sealed with a dental adhesive to prevent reinfection.

Each stage of root canal treatment is crucial for effectively eliminating infection, preserving the tooth, and restoring its function. Our team will guide you through the process and ensure that you are comfortable and well-informed at every step.

At Great Smiles Family Dentistry, we provide you with the expert care that you need for efficient and effective wisdom teeth removal. We offer manageable payment plans as well as direct billing to most major insurance providers. Reach out to our exceptional team with any questions that you may have or to book an appointment – we’re always happy to chat and take your call. Please don’t hesitate to call us. We look forward to helping you restore your smile and your confidence. We serve patients from Toledo OH, Oregon OH, Ottawa Hills OH, Perrysburg OH, Woodhurst OH, Sylvania OH, Shoreland OH, and BEYOND!