Root Canal Therapy

Root Canal Therapy in Atlanta and Lawrenceville, Georgia

At Milestone Dentistry and Facial Aesthetics, we understand that dental procedures can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with them. One of the most common treatments we provide is root canal therapy, and we want to make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your oral health.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a procedure used to save a damaged or infected tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay. The space left behind is then filled with special, medicated dental materials that restore the tooth to its full function. Root canal therapy is an effective way to save a tooth that would otherwise die and have to be removed.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Many patients believe that extracting a damaged tooth is the best solution. However, removing a tooth can lead to more significant problems for adjacent teeth, and it can also be more costly in the long run. Root canal therapy is a much better option as it:

Saves the natural tooth
Relieves pain and discomfort
Restores the tooth's full function
Prevents further damage to adjacent teeth
Provides long-term results

Warning Signs and Symptoms You Might Need Root Canal Therapy

If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact Milestone Dentistry and Facial Aesthetics right away to schedule an appointment with our experienced endodontists. They will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and recommend the best treatment plan to restore your oral health.

Here are some warning signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy:

Sensitivity to hot and cold
Severe toothache pain
An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
Swelling and/or tenderness

Our Root Canal Therapy Procedure

Our root canal procedure typically requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or an endodontist (a root canal specialist). Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

Step 1: Numbing the Tooth

While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva.

Step 2: Accessing the Pulp

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 will also be removed with special dental instruments.

Step 3: Cleaning the Tooth

Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.

Step 4: Filling the Roots and Cavity

At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth.

Step 5: Placing a Crown

In addition, all teeth that have had root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This will protect the tooth, prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function.

Contact Milestone Dentistry and Facial Aesthetics Today

If you are experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms of a root canal infection, don’t wait. Reach out to Milestone Dentistry and Facial Aesthetics right away. We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and helps you achieve optimal oral health. With our compassionate care and state-of-the-art technology, you can trust us to provide you with the best possible root canal therapy experience.

Schedule a consultation today.