Root Canal Specialist

What is a root canal?

A root canal is an endodontic procedure that treats damaged or infected tooth pulp. Pulp resides in the center of each tooth and contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It helps your permanent teeth come in but isn’t necessary for their long-term survival.

By removing damaged or inflamed tooth pulp, Dr. Davidson can eliminate pain, stop the infection from spreading, and save your permanent tooth.

Why would I need a root canal?

Dr. Davidson uses root canals to treat damaged or infected tooth pulp. Common causes of pulp inflammation and damage include:

• Experiencing oral trauma
• Undergoing numerous dental procedures on a single tooth
• Developing a severe cavity
• Chipping or cracking a tooth

If you experience tooth pain, increased sensitivity, or a feeling of heat in your gums, contact Dr. Davidson right away. 

What does a root canal involve?

At Dr. Robert Davidson, DDS, P.C., getting a root canal takes two appointments:

First appointment

During your initial consultation, Dr. Davidson conducts an oral exam and asks about your symptoms. Then, he takes oral X-rays to assess the extent of the damage or decay. 

Dr. Davidson administers a local anesthetic and carefully removes the pulp from the center of your tooth. Then, he rinses your tooth out with an antibacterial solution and fills it with a material called gutta-percha. 

Lastly, Dr. Davidson takes digital impressions of your tooth and sends them to a dental laboratory. Before leaving the office, he applies a temporary crown to protect your tooth.

Second appointment

When the laboratory completes your crown, you return to the office. Dr. Davidson administers a local anesthetic, removes your temporary crown, and replaces it with the permanent one. After bonding the crown in place, he polishes your teeth, trims any excess material, and provides care instructions.

What is recovery like after a root canal?

After a root canal, most people experience mild swelling and increased tooth sensitivity. Avoid biting down on your temporary crown and stick to soft foods like yogurt or mashed potatoes for at least two days. 

Continue brushing and flossing as normal, but be careful around the treatment site. Once you receive your permanent crown, it’s okay to return to routine activities right away. 

To learn more about undergoing a root canal, make an appointment at the practice of Dr. Robert Davidson, DDS, P.C. by calling the office to speak with a caring member of the administrative staff or by clicking the online booking tool.