Have you ever had a root canal? If not, surely your family members have. We have all heard someone complain of a painful root canal they had done. It is a resisted and even feared dental procedure. But if you know the facts, there is no reason to resist, or to be afraid! Place yourself in the good hands of an experienced endodontist. With today’s equipment and methods, root canals have become hardly more than a slightly uncomfortable, mild inconvenience. Endodontists would say, “We’ve come a long way.”

Did you think that root canals take a couple hours, or more? The fact is, nowadays, we can do them in an hour. Sometimes even less. Use of digital imaging, ultrasonics, and operating microscopes have not only reduced the time it takes to perform a root canal, but the pain level as well. This helpful procedure which saves your natural, original tooth (always preferred over pulling it) has become virtually pain-free. Of course, the exact condition of your tooth and root play a role.

With more serious issues, it is wise to use an endodontist. This is because an endodontist has received two or three years of additional training beyond dental school. They treat teeth with decayed, damaged roots every day, as opposed to a regular dentist who may only do one or two root canal procedures per week. Endodontists have special training in unusual or serious cases, such as unusually small or narrow teeth, blocked teeth, teeth with failed previous root canal treatment, etcetera. You can have peace of mind knowing that your root canal is being done by a specialist.

Your endodontist is also adept at administering local anesthesia, so this will be a smooth and effective process. Once people have a root canal done by an experienced endodontist, they typically tell their friends and family that they would see that dentist again, and that “It didn’t hurt like I thought it would.” If your dentist tells you that you need a root canal, feel free to ask about an endodontist. They can refer you to an endodontist if the situation warrants, and it is not unusual (nor is it poor manners) to ask for the referral.

Keep in mind that your regular dentist often does not have the advanced tools and technologies that the endodontist has for root canals, not to mention the training. Ultimately it is your decision. But ask questions and know your options. Endodontists are also called upon for handling abscessed teeth. Get the facts and then you can make the right decision. Our office is happy to answer any question on this subject. Just call ——–