Root Canal Treatment

If the nerve of your tooth becomes infected, you don’t necessarily have to lose the tooth. The infected nerve may be treated with Root Canal Therapy in order to save your tooth. This procedure may take two visits to treat, and your doctor will make this decision based on the severity of your infection. (see video below about how we diagnose the need for a root canal) The philosophy at Sage Dentistry is that a dental specialist, called an Endodontist, should complete Root Canals. Endodontists complete three years of post-graduate training exclusively focused on root canal procedures. They also have specialized instruments including microscopes and electronic pulp testers to diagnose and treat your infected tooth in an efficient and precise manner. Dr. Kimes may recognize your need for a Root Canal based on either a large amount of decay present in a tooth or if you are experiencing a significant amount of pain or swelling. Based on your symptoms, they may recommend that you see an Endodontist for root canal treatment. The doctors will maintain close communication with the Endodontist throughout your treatment and will send any necessary x-rays for your convenience. When receiving root canal treatment (see video below), the doctor will first numb the area and confirm that you have achieved profound anesthesia before proceeding. The nerve canal of the tooth will be exposed, and all infected tissue and bacteria will be removed. After reshaping and treating your nerve canal, it will be sealed and filled with a material that prevents reinfection. X-rays will be taken to confirm the completion of the root canal treatment. Depending on your tooth’s condition, the Endodontist will either close the access to your nerve canal with a composite filling or you will be referred back to Sage Dentistry for Dr. Kimes to complete the final restoration. On back teeth, this generally includes placing a crown on the tooth. Our doctors at Sage Dentistry believe you deserve a healthy, pain free smile, and a Root Canal can prevent an infected tooth from being extracted. Please contact us with any questions you may have about root canal treatment and how it can save your tooth and your smile.