What are the signs I need a root canal?
Common signs are pain when you bite, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the food or drink is gone, a swollen gum or a pimple near the tooth, and a tooth that has turned darker. Some infected teeth cause no pain at all and only show up on an X-ray.
Does a root canal hurt?
The tooth is numbed first, so most people feel pressure rather than pain during treatment. The tooth may be tender for a few days afterward, and over-the-counter pain relievers usually help. The infection is what hurts, and the root canal removes it.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals take one or two visits. Front teeth have fewer canals and are usually quicker than molars.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Back teeth usually do. A tooth that has had a root canal is more brittle, and a dental crown protects it from cracking when you chew. Front teeth sometimes only need a filling.
Is a root canal better than pulling the tooth?
Keeping your natural tooth is usually the better choice. An extraction leaves a gap that should be filled with a dental implant or a bridge to stop nearby teeth from shifting, which costs more in the long run.
Do I need an endodontist for a root canal?
An endodontist is a dentist who focuses on root canal treatment. Many root canals are done by general dentists. Dr. Sobieh will examine your tooth and tell you whether it’s complex enough that a specialist is the better choice. Our guide to finding an endodontist in Winchester explains the difference.