If you are experiencing unexpected pain in your teeth or gums and are worried about losing your tooth, you should consult a dentist. A root canal surgery can help save your tooth or, at the very least, save the adjacent ones from being damaged. Millions of Americans need root canal treatment each year, and when performed by a skilled root canal specialist, it can be a surprisingly comfortable experience that saves your natural tooth. So you don’t have to worry or be intimidated by it. In this guide, you will understand what happens in a root canal surgery and how to find a good root canal specialist.
What Exactly Does a Root Canal Specialist Do?
A root canal specialist, also known as an endodontist, is a dentist who has completed years of specialized training focused exclusively on treating the inside of teeth. While your family dentist can handle many dental procedures, complex root canal cases often require expertise that only a root canal specialist can provide.
These specialists use new, more advanced tech, including powerful microscopes and digital imaging technology, to precisely diagnose and treat infected or damaged tooth pulp. Their specialized training means that they can often save teeth that might otherwise have required extraction.
Signs You Might Need to Visit a Root Canal Specialist
Recognizing symptoms early can help you save your tooth before it is damaged further and is too late for surgery. Here are the most common ones that indicate you should schedule a consultation:
Severe tooth pain that worsens every time you bite, chew, or apply pressure is often the first red flag. This pain might not be that intense or might not even occur every time, but it typically becomes more constant and intense over time.
Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperature or food, especially when the sensation lingers long after the stimulus is removed, is another sign of gum damage.
Swelling and tenderness can occur around the gums due to an untreated infection inside the tooth. This can cause damage to adjacent teeth as well, and to prevent that root canal treatment is recommended.
Darkening or discoloration of the tooth suggests the inner pulp is dying or already dead, requiring intervention from a root canal specialist.
What Happens in Modern Root Canal Surgeries?
Many are intimidated by the root canal treatment. If you ask anyone, they will tell you it is very painful and the recovery period is long as well. However, the reality is that modern root canal treatment, performed by an experienced root canal specialist, is no more uncomfortable than getting a large filling.
Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
First, your specialist will numb the area completely using local anesthetic. Many patients report feeling nothing during the procedure except perhaps some pressure. The entire process usually takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of your case.
Using specialized instruments, the root canal specialist carefully removes the infected/inflamed pulp from inside your tooth, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and then seals the space to prevent future infection. Most patients can return to work the next day with minimal discomfort that responds well to over-the-counter pain relievers.
Why Choose a Root Canal Specialist Over General Dental Care?
While your family dentist is excellent for routine cleanings, checkups, fillings, and general oral health maintenance, root canal treatment requires more than that. A root canal specialist performs these root canal procedures daily. They have great experience in handling complex cases.
They will also have access to advanced surgical technology for incredibly precise treatment that a general family dentist might not. This technology, combined with their specialized training, often means better outcomes and higher success rates.
Post-Treatment Healing
After your root canal treatment, your tooth requires a permanent restoration, typically a crown, to protect and restore full function. Your root canal specialist will work closely with your regular dentist to ensure good care throughout your treatment journey.
The treated tooth can last for a long time with proper care and maintenance. You’ll need to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly, just as you previously did. Most patients have reported that their treated tooth feels completely normal once healing is complete.
Finding the Right Root Canal Specialist
When choosing a root canal specialist, look for board certification and positive patient reviews. Don’t hesitate to ask about their experience with cases similar to yours. Ask your root canal specialist about the pain management options they offer.
Many specialists also offer emergency services, as dental pain doesn’t always knock on the door before it arrives. Having access to urgent care when you need it most can provide invaluable peace of mind.
The Bottom Line
Root canal treatment has come a long way, and today’s root canal specialist can often save your natural tooth with minimal discomfort. If you’re experiencing dental pain, don’t wait – early intervention typically leads to better outcomes and a more comfortable treatment experience. Your smile is worth protecting, and with the right specialist, you can keep your natural teeth for years to come.
