Root Canal

University Dental Care

Cosmetic & Family Dentist located in New Brunswick, NJ

There are plenty of urban legends regarding root canals, but in reality, a root canal procedure is both safe and effective. At University Dental Care in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Lanny Rubin, DDS, and the dental team regularly perform root canal procedures, preserving their patients’ natural, permanent teeth. The caring team always makes sure patients have an easy, pleasant experience, so you no longer have to live with tooth pain. Many patients are so relaxed, they actually fall asleep during the procedure. To learn more about root canal treatment, call the office or request an appointment online today.

732-545-1268

Root Canal Q & A

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to repair a tooth, that due to excessive decay, has reached the nerve or pulp of the tooth or has received some type of trauma. The goal of a root canal is to eliminate an infection located inside your tooth’s pulp. Left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to abscesses, gum deterioration, and possible tooth loss.

If I need a root canal, will I know it?

The only way to determine if you need a root canal is to visit an experienced dental team like the one at University Dental Care. However, there are telltale signs that can alert you to a potential problem. These include:

Toothaches that occur when biting or chewing
Extreme sensitivity to temperature, especially hot
Discoloration or darkening of one or more teeth
Pimples or blisters forming on your gums
Swollen, tender gums

The dental team at University Dental Care takes time to explain your condition and how they can treat it with a root canal. They use chairside models and drawings to ensure that you understand the necessary treatment completely.

What happens during a root canal?

Your dentist performs an oral exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you a series of questions about your symptoms. Next, he will take digital X-rays to see exactly what is happening inside the tooth, as well as the surrounding tissues.

Dr. Rubin may elect to place you on an antibiotic to clear up any infection prior to the first appointment, as well as something to control any discomfort. At the next appointment and after an anesthetic is given, Dr. Rubin removes the nerve, as well as any decay, and fills the canal. He places a provisional filling, and you are free to go home.

Are root canals painful?

Root canals have a bad reputation, but there's nothing to worry about. Thanks to modern techniques and anesthetics, a root canal appointment will be very similar to getting a new filling placed.

Your dentist may prescribe an antibiotic the week prior to your procedure. This reduces your risk of infection and ensures that the anesthetic will be fully effective, so you feel nothing during your procedure. He can also prescribe pain medicine to help you stay comfortable and pain-free.

You may experience some swelling and pain directly following your procedure, but any discomfort should subside 24-48 hours following treatment. The University Dental Care team makes sure to call you in the evening following your root canal to check that you’re doing just fine.

If you suspect you may need a root canal, call the office or request an appointment online at University Dental Care today.