Root Canal

Root canals are a common procedure and have a success rate of 95%. There are procedures in place that can help your root canal last such as placing the crown immediately following the root canal. It is also important to practice good oral hygiene habits after your root canal at home.

There are some cases where patients do have an issue after their root canal is complete. Even though it is unlikely, root canals can fail. Failed root canals can be due to cracks in or around the root area, or from an obstruction that can make cleaning the area difficult.

There are symptoms you can look out for that may indicate you may have an issue. These symptoms include sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or pain while chewing. If you experience any of these symptoms we urge you to call our office as soon as possible.

How Does an Apicoectomy Work?

If a patient has a blockage around the tooth that is preventing access to the root canal they may need an apicoectomy procedure. This procedure involves creating a small flap in the gum to access the root. The infected area is cleaned out and sealed to prevent further infection. This is a great way for our team to access the root area that has the blockage and save your tooth.

Other Treatment Options

Retreatment

The most common option for failed root canals is retreatment. This involves removing the original filling, and cleaning and disinfecting the canal. The area is then resealed to prevent further infection. This treatment has the highest success rate.

Extraction

If both the apicoectomy and retreatment are not effective, removing the tooth is the last resort. With this option dental implants can be used to fill the empty space where the tooth was extracted.

Our team works closely with each patient to determine the severity and treatment options for a root canal failure. We want to choose the best option to save your tooth. Your health is our priority and we strive to provide the highest level of care for all of our patients.

Interested In Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about root canal therapy and treatment options for failed root canals, we encourage you to schedule an appointment. If you are experiencing symptoms of a failed root canal please do not hesitate to call our office. You should be seen as soon as possible.

To schedule your appointment contact our office, and our friendly staff will assist you.

how painful is the dental implant process

Patients that choose to move forward with the dental implant process wonder how painful the procedure will be. Dental implants look and feel natural in the mouth, and are a great restorative solution for those that have missing, cracked, or broken teeth. Our customized treatment plans work for each patient’s needs, and we work closely with our patients every step of the way.

Overall, the implant process is not painful. Many patients say that the dental implant process is less painful than having a tooth pulled. To keep patients comfortable we use local anesthesia and numb the gums around the implant area. Our team also checks to make sure each patient has enough bone present in their jaw to support their new implants. If necessary, bone grafting can be done to give patients the bone required in their jaw. This is an extra step in the process and does require additional healing.

How Is the Implant Healing Process?

The healing process for dental implants takes between 4-6 months. Antibiotics may be recommended to patients, as well as pain relievers to help with the healing process.

After Your Implant Procedure You May Have the Following

  • Minor bleeding that should subside after a day or two.
  • Minor swelling or bruising around the face and implant area.
  • Some pain or sensitivity around the implant area.

If patients notice any pain, swelling, or bleeding that does not subside, or gets progressively worse we encourage you to contact our office immediately. You will need to be seen in our office as soon as possible. During the healing process soft foods are recommended, and patients should stay away from foods or drinks that may stain your teeth.

Dental implants can last up to 25 years or a lifetime if they are cared for properly. The pain associated with the dental implant process can be kept at a minimum by following the at home care instructions. Implants are a great choice for patients seeking a beautiful smile that is permanent and will last for years.

Interested in Finding Out More?

To find out more, scheduling your implant consultation is the first step towards a beautiful smile. Our team is available to answer any questions, and our detailed consultation process allows our team to take a close look at your mouth and teeth. We will build a customized treatment plan and get you on the road to a beautiful smile.

To schedule your implant consultation contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!