Root Canal (Endodontic) Treatment

In the past, if you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, you’d probably lose that tooth. Today with a special dental procedure called root canal treatment, you may save that tooth. Typically this treatment can take two to three visits. However, because of Dr. Marxen’s extensive training and experience; your root canal and Cerec restoration can usually be completed in one visit. 

When a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria can enter the pulp. Germs can cause an infection inside the tooth. Left without treatment, pus builds up at the root tip in the jawbone, forming a “pus-pocket” called an abscess. An abscess can cause the pulp tissue to die. When the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result. Certain byproducts of the infection can injure your jawbones and your overall health. Without treatment, your tooth may have to be removed.

At Advanced Care Dentistry, we can typically complete your root canal and Cerec® restoration in one visit. During treatment, we remove the diseased pulp; then the pulp chamber and root canal(s) of the tooth are cleaned and sealed. We use state-of-the-art technology including electronic apex locatators and automated titanimum rotary instrumentation, which allows us to complete the root canal in one visit and in many instances requires only one x-ray.

After the tooth has been sealed, we will place a ceramic restoration or crown on the tooth in order to strengthen the remaining structure. Then, as long as you continue to care for your teeth and gums with regular brushing, flossing, and checkups so that the root(s) of the restored tooth are nourished by the surrounding tissues, your restored tooth can last a lifetime.

Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile!