Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment can save an infected tooth from otherwise certain extraction—it’s a proven procedure that will leave your mouth healthy and strong while restoring its natural appearance.

Root Canal Treatment

A tooth’s inner structure consists of a soft, delicate material called the pulp. This material is normally protected by the tough enamel material that surrounds it. However, a potentially serious infection can occur if harmful bacteria are able to access the inside pulp. This happens occasionally due to deep cavities or unexpected injuries. If you don’t receive treatment, you could likely lose your tooth. Root canal treatment is a great solution to overcome a serious inner tooth infection.

We offer root canal treatments at both Ace Dental Boston locations – Hyde Park & West Roxbury. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or believe you may need a root canal, call our office today to set up an appointment.

root canal treatment
  • What is the procedure for a root canal?

    Root canal treatment starts with digital X-rays to determine the amount of damage in the tooth. Sedation is then provided for comfort as the dentist accesses the tooth’s inner structure from the top. They carefully clean out an infectious material to leave the tooth as a hollowed-out structure. Then an antimicrobial liquid flushes out the root canals down to the jawbone. The tooth is then treated with a medicated filling substance to offer support and strength and to help the tooth heal in a timely manner. To protect the tooth, a dental crown is placed over the structure to prevent factures and breakages.

  • How do I know if my root canal is infected?

    A patient suffering from an infected root canal will almost certainly recognize that there is something wrong. They will usually be in severe pain and will notice the following signs:

    • Severe and intense toothaches that won’t go away
    • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks
    • Swollen and tender lymph nodes
    • Recurring abscesses on the gums
  • How long does the pain from a root canal last?

    A common misconception revolves around the idea that root canals cause severe pain. In reality, a root canal procedure typically does not cause more pain than a routine dental filling. Dentists typically administer an anesthetic before the procedure, ensuring that the experience is relatively comfortable during and shortly after. However, in the days following the root canal, some tenderness or sensitivity may persist as the healing process takes place.

  • What are alternatives to a root canal treatment?

    Most people facing root canal treatment are curious as to whether there are alternative procedures worth considering. Since endodontic therapy is considered a “last line of defense” for restoring your tooth, the only remaining options are to have your tooth extracted or wait until you’re in pain and have it removed at a later date. Unfortunately, with either of these options, you risk the infection spreading deeper into your face or adjacent teeth. Getting a root canal is the best possible solution.

    If you opt to have your tooth extracted, there’s still the concern of replacing it as soon as possible. Otherwise, the extra space in your bite can throw off the alignment of your surrounding teeth. Two of the more common replacement options include a dental bridge or implant.

     

Questions on Root Canal Treatment?

If you have questions about root canal treatment contact us today, or explore the other preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental services we offer.

Ace Dental Boston in Hyde Park

1138 River St.
Boston, MA 02136
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Hours

Monday - Friday: 9am-6pm
Saturday: 9am-2pm (every other week)
Sunday: Closed

Phone

(617) 361-5020

Ace Dental Boston in West Roxbury

1840 Centre St.
Boston, MA 02132
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Hours

Monday - Thursday: 9am-6pm
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 9am-2pm (every other week)
Sunday: Closed

Phone

(617) 327-5700