Root Canal

Root canal therapy bears the brunt of many jokes and groans. In truth, endodontics gets the patient out of discomfort quickly, and it may be the only way to save an infected or damaged tooth. At Cress Dental in Twin Falls, root canal treatment is nothing to fear.

About root canal treatment in Twin Falls

At the center of each tooth is a mass of vascular and nerve tissue. Normally, this pulp is protected from bacterial invasion by the layer of enamel and underlying dentin structure. Untreated or hidden decay compromises those safeguards. Bacteria trigger tooth infection, irritating the nerve and building painful pressure in the pulp chamber.

The problem may develop gradually, with sensitivity to hold, cold, or sweet; tenderness when you bite down; or an unpleasant taste in the mouth. In the case of an abscessed tooth, pain is acute, and the mouth or face may be swollen. If infection reaches the root tip, it can spread to bone or cause serious systemic infection.

Need for root canal treatment may also be the result of trauma – a chip or crack that breeches enamel, or repeated dental work involving drilling that sensitizes the nerve.

Common questions

• Is a root canal painful? Generally, no. Root canal therapy relieves immediate discomfort and removes the source of future pain – the nerve. Pain medication and antibiotics may be started before the procedure, and your mouth is thoroughly numbed.

• What is involved in getting a root canal? The doctor opens the tooth, which immediately alleviates pressure. Damaged structure is removed. Using special endodontic instruments, the pulp is also removed. The chamber and canals are disinfected. The opening is sealed, and the tooth protected with a temporary restoration. You return in several weeks to have a final crown placed. Most patients say it feels about like getting a filling – the appointment just takes a little longer.

• How long does a root canal hurt? As with any invasive dental work, soft tissues may feel tender for a day or two; maybe a little longer depending on the severity of infection. Since the tooth no longer has a nerve, it cannot cause further pain. Residual discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter analgesics.

Call Dr. Justin Cress at (208) 544-4848 when you need a root canal dentist in the Buhl, Kimberly, Jerome, or Hailey area to perform the procedure with precision and compassion.