Root Canal Procedures

Performing a root canal is the most tedious of all dental procedures, and therefore may require a longer dental appointment. However, since dentists always use local anesthetic to numb the area, pain is eliminated throughout the procedure (alternative sedation options are available for those with additional concerns). Antibiotics are generally given to patients either before or after the procedure to facilitate the healing process.

Once the nerve of the tooth is removed, the overall structure of the tooth is weakened, much like the shell of a hollow egg. It is important to have a crown placed over a tooth soon after it is treated with a root canal to protect the tooth structure and keep it from splitting or fracturing.