Your root canal is the chamber in the center of each of your teeth. Within this chamber is a soft area that contains both dental pulp and the nerve of your tooth. This is, however, not what most people think of when they hear "root canal." Root canal therapy is a general dentistry procedure in which infected pulp and damaged nerve tissue are removed from a tooth. When infection impacts the pulp chamber, a root canal becomes necessary to prevent the need for tooth extraction. Serious infection is a dental emergency. Call (781) 396-8558, and we will schedule you for our first available appointment.

Signs and Prevention

Signs of an Infected Tooth

In some cases, an infected tooth requiring Root Canal Therapy will be discovered during your regularly scheduled dental hygiene and cleaning appointments before any symptoms are present. However, in between appointments, you should contact our office immediately if you experience:

Increased tooth sensitivity to hot and cold
Severe toothache
Tooth discoloration

Swollen and tender gums around a particular tooth
A pimple on the gums

These are all possible indications of a tooth infection and must be dealt with promptly to avoid serious oral health complications. Sometimes, severe infection requiring a root canal won't cause any symptoms. For this reason, it's important to be examined by a dentist regularly to prevent infection and other problems.

If you don't receive a root canal in time, it's possible you require an extraction instead. There's no way to save an infected tooth once it reaches a certain point. We highly recommend visiting us at the first sign of trouble so we can preserve your natural tooth.

root canal therapy patient model smiling wearing a checkered sports coat

Root Canal: A Pain-Free Solution

Benefits of a Root Canal

A root canal can significantly improve your quality of life by eliminating pain and preventing further dental complications. This treatment preserves your natural tooth, helping you avoid the need for more invasive procedures down the line. With a root canal, you can return to enjoying your favorite foods, smiling confidently, and living without the constant worry of tooth pain or infection.

Benefits of a Root Canal include:

Oral Health: Removes infection and decay, preserving your natural tooth structure.
Comfort: Alleviates pain and discomfort caused by an infected tooth.
Aesthetics: Maintains the appearance of your natural smile without the need for visible prosthetics.
Functionality: Restores full function, allowing you to bite and chew normally.
Overall Health: Prevents the spread of infection to other areas of your body, which can protect your overall well-being.

When Root Canals Are Necessary

Root Canal Candidates

Our Woburn root canal therapy is ideal for individuals experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, or those who have deep decay or a cracked tooth. If left untreated, these issues can lead to more serious infections or tooth loss. Generally, anyone with a healthy mouth and no severe underlying health issues can be a candidate for a root canal. Those with certain allergies, compromised immune systems, or severe health conditions should consult with Dr. Clancy to determine the best treatment options.

Good candidates for a root canal include:

Individuals with persistent tooth pain or sensitivity.
Teeth with deep decay that have reached the pulp of the tooth.
Patients with a cracked or chipped tooth that affects the root.
People who have experienced a tooth injury that hasn't healed properly.
Infected or abscessed teeth.
Individuals looking to avoid extraction and preserve their natural teeth.
Severely worn down teeth.
Patients without severe allergies or health conditions that could complicate the procedure.

root canal therapy patient model in a striped shirt smiling outside

Comfortable and Convenient

The Root Canal Therapy Procedure

The root canal procedure has a bad reputation but is actually no more uncomfortable than a common dental filling procedure. At our practice in Woburn root canal therapy is performed under local anesthetic, but, because the nerve of the tooth is dead, this step is often more for your comfort than out of necessity. Once you have been made comfortable, Dr. Clancy will make a small access hole in the infected tooth through which dental tools can be inserted to gently remove decay, bacteria, and the pulp. Occasionally during this process, we will use a medical solution to flush the pulp chamber as well. Once the foundation of your tooth is cleaned, we will seal your tooth and fit you with a dental crown during this visit. While every tooth is unique in its presentation, we work hard to minimize your time away from work and/or your family. We will complete this entire process in-office and cater the procedures to meet your particular needs.

A Smile That Lasts a Lifetime

Root Canal Results

You'll notice immediate relief from pain and discomfort once your root canal is complete. The treated tooth will be free of infection, and once fully restored with a crown, it will look and function just like your natural teeth. The results are long-lasting, with many patients enjoying a lifetime of healthy smiles after treatment.

Caring for Your New Smile

Root Canal Recovery and Aftercare

After your root canal, you might experience some mild soreness, but this typically subsides within a few days. It's important to follow Dr. Clancy's aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding hard or sticky foods and practicing good oral hygiene. Maintaining your results is simple—regular dental check-ups and cleanings will keep your treated tooth in top shape.

root canal therapy patient model in a red sweater smiling

Dental Relief

Are Root Canals Painful?

Most patients think root canals feel painful. This is not true. The terrible stigma that surrounds root canals actually comes from the pain patients feel prior to their root canal. When your tooth becomes infected, it usually goes hand in hand with pain. The treatment doesn't cause you any pain. Instead, it alleviates it. If you feel any anxiety about your upcoming root canal because you believe it will feel painful, we can provide you with a drug-free way to relax with NuCalm. Once your procedure is over, you might feel sore for days to come. You can alleviate this with over the counter pain relievers.

Maintaining a Healthy Smile

Preventing Root Canals

If you've ever had a root canal or want to avoid them at all costs, there are a few preventive steps you can take. For one, maintain good oral hygiene. This means brushing and flossing regularly as well as visiting the dentist every 6 months. If Dr. Clancy finds a cavity in your mouth, have it filled sooner than later. One of the main reasons you might need a root canal is an untreated cavity. Make sure to also use a fluoridated toothpaste to give your teeth extra protection from bacteria and infection. For more information about options for saving a damaged or disease tooth, please contact Divine Smiles today by calling (781) 396-8558 to schedule a comprehensive examination.

root canal therapy patient model smiling in a white shirt

Dangers of Dental Neglect

Risks of Delaying Treatment for Infected Teeth

While many patients may delay seeking treatment for an infected tooth, it's important to understand the potential consequences. In severe cases, untreated tooth infections can lead to:

Tooth Loss: The infection can destroy the tooth's structure, leading to its eventual loss.
Bone Loss: The infection may spread to the surrounding jawbone, causing deterioration and bone loss.
Nerve Impingement: The infection can press on surrounding nerves, causing pain, numbness, or other complications.
Tissue Loss: Prolonged infection can damage nearby gum tissue and other oral structures.
Sinusitis: Infections in the upper teeth can spread to the sinus cavities, leading to sinus infections.
Sepsis: In very rare cases, untreated infections can spread to the bloodstream, leading to a life-threatening condition known as sepsis.

By addressing the issue promptly, you can avoid these serious complications and preserve both your oral and overall health.

How much does a Root Canal cost?

The cost of a root canal can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the materials used. Dr. Clancy tailors each treatment to your unique needs, which means the price can differ. Factors like the tooth's location, the need for a crown, and any additional treatments will influence the final cost. At Divine Smiles, the fee typically includes the root canal procedure, necessary anesthetics, and the use of our state-of-the-art facility.

Experience the Divine Smiles Difference

Why choose Divine Smiles for your Root Canal?

Divine Smiles stands out for its commitment to patient comfort and the use of the latest technology. Dr. Ryan Clancy is highly respected in the Woburn community, known for his gentle approach and dedication to patient care. With numerous awards and a track record of excellent results, you can trust Divine Smiles to handle your root canal with expertise and compassion.

Root Canal Frequently Asked Questions

Is Root Canal a common treatment?

Yes, a root canal is a very common procedure performed to save millions of teeth each year.

Is a Root Canal painful? What does it feel like?

Most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure, thanks to modern anesthetics. You might feel some pressure but no sharp pain.

How do I know if I need a Root Canal?

Signs you might need a root canal include persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to temperature, or a tooth that has become darkened.

How long is the recovery time after a Root Canal?

Recovery is usually quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within one to two days.

Your Ideal Smile Begins Here

Schedule Your Consultation With Premier Woburn Dentist Dr. Ryan Clancy

Dr. Ryan Clancy and every member of our team are here to help guide you to your healthiest, most confident smile. Take the first step by scheduling a full assessment of your concerns, and begin designing your ideal smile and personalized treatment plan.

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Root Canal in Woburn