Root Canal Treatment in Cary, West, NC

A root canal is a dental procedure that we use to remove infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth. The inside of your tooth contains soft tissue called pulp, which can become inflamed or infected because of deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. Pediatric root canals in Cary, NC, are designed to relieve pain, stop infection from spreading, and save your natural tooth so that you can keep smiling pain-free!

Most root canals in Cary, NC, take between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the tooth's location and the severity of the infection. Usually, it is completed in a single visit; however, more complex cases sometimes require an additional appointment.

We understand that you might feel nervous about root canals, but we use modern techniques and anesthesia to make the process more comfortable and efficient. We take the time to explain every step and help you feel relaxed throughout your visit.

When you come in for your root canal appointment, we will begin with a full exam and digital X-rays so we can evaluate the tooth and plan the best treatment approach. Once the area is fully numb with local anesthesia, we carefully remove the infected tissue from inside the tooth.

After cleaning and disinfecting the canals, the tooth is sealed to help prevent reinfection. We sometimes recommend getting a custom dental crown afterward to help with the tooth’s strength, function, and appearance.

Here are some common signs you need a root canal:

• Severe tooth pain, especially with hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Sensitivity that lingers for more than 10 seconds
• Throbbing or pulsing pain
• Swelling in your gums or face
• Pus or drainage near the tooth
• A visible abscess or pimple on the gums
• A tooth that looks darker than the others
• A loose or shifting tooth

After your root canal procedure, it is normal to experience some soreness and sensitivity for a few days, especially when you are eating and chewing. That can easily be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and usually improves quickly. Most patients return to normal activities pretty soon after a root canal treatment in Cary. However, if you experience severe pain, swelling, or symptoms that worsen instead of improving, give us a call so we can get it checked out.

To help with recovery, our root canal dentist in Cary recommends:

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your final restoration is placed
• Brush and floss gently as directed
• Take medications exactly as recommended
• Attend follow-up visits if needed