A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments.  Treatment begins by anesthetizing the tooth.  Then a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva.  An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria.  If tooth decay is present,  it is removed as well.

At this juncture, there are various factors that may make it  necessary to determine exactly what specific bacteria are present within the tooth. If there is moderate swelling, allergy to  specific antibiotics, specific health (medical) issues, or lack of proper healing response, a bacteriologic sample of the tooth's contents will be taken.

This simple, but very effective culturing procedure is in common use within the medical world, however, to our knowledge, we are the only endodontic office utilizing this technique.  It ensures an efficient and proper procedure, rather than treating with the usual antibiotic of choice, only to discover that it did not produce the proper response.   Every tooth is different.  In determining the proper antibiotic to employ, the "one size fits all" theory does not always apply.   Often the best antibiotic for success is not the usual but one that may be a 4th or 5th choice.  We are committed to taking any guesswork out of your treatment equation. 

Once the tooth and roots are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized,  the roots are filled, and a temporary filling is placed in order to seal the outside of the tooth.  Upon completion of the root canal therapy, a crown (cap) is usually required if the tooth does not have one.  This should be done as soon as possible by your general dentist.  This will protect the tooth from fracturing or splitting and will restore the tooth to its full function.

After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth and bone have healed.  You will be given post operative care instructions.  Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.