Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a routine dental treatment that carefully removes the pulp, or soft tissue, from the inside of a tooth. You need root canal treatment if the pulp is inflamed or infected, which can cause tooth pain that worsens with time. 

During your root canal procedure Dr. Daugherty creates an opening using specialized instruments through the top of the tooth. He removes the diseased or inflamed blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues. He thoroughly disinfects and then seals the root canal spaces, and a temporary filling is placed.

After the root canal treatment is completed, you return to your general dentist for the final restoration.

How will I know if I need root canal treatment?

There are a few distinct symptoms that come with infected or inflamed pulp inside a tooth. Learning to recognize the symptoms could help you receive early treatment and avoid possible complications.

You should schedule a consultation with Dr. Daugherty if you have:

• Tooth pain when biting down
• Tooth sensitivity to extreme temperatures
• Swelling or bumps on the gums
• Gum pain
• Visible chips or cracks in your teeth

 Even if you don’t have any symptoms, or if your symptoms are mild enough to write off at first, your general dentist can detect a tooth infection in your mouth and may refer you for a root canal. 

Can I go back to work after root canal treatment?

When you leave the office after root canal treatment you can go home or back to work right away. 

However, you may have some soreness in the area after local anesthesia wears off. It’s similar to leaving the office after a filling or crown placement, and it’s up to you whether you want to return to work or take the rest of the day off. 

Will I need to take medication after root canal treatment?

If you experience inflammation and soreness after your root canal treatment Dr. Daugherty may have you take anti-inflammatory medications for the first 1-4 days after treatment. Depending on the details of your case, Dr. Daugherty might also prescribe a course of antibiotics if appropriate.