If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or sensitivity, you may be a candidate for root canal therapy. Our Grand Haven, MI dentist, Dr. John Leitner specializes in root canal therapy and is committed to providing his patients with gentle, effective treatment. With years of experience and advanced training, Dr. Leitner uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure his patients’ comfort and satisfaction. Whether you need a simple or complex root canal, Dr. Leitner and our team are here to help restore your oral health and alleviate your pain.
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. The treatment involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and sealing it to prevent future infections.
The benefits of root canal therapy include:
The root canal therapy procedure involves the following steps:
Overall, the root canal therapy procedure is a safe and effective way to save a severely damaged or infected tooth and avoid more invasive treatments.
Yes, it is possible for a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy to become infected again. This can occur if bacteria enter the tooth through a crack or cavity in the filling or crown that was placed after the root canal, or if the filling or crown becomes loose or damaged. Other factors that can increase the risk of reinfection include inadequate cleaning of the root canals during the initial procedure or the presence of additional canals that were not treated during the first root canal.
The length of the root canal therapy procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the number of roots and canals in the affected tooth, and other factors such as the patient’s anatomy and level of anxiety. Generally, a root canal therapy procedure can take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes to complete for a single tooth. However, more complex cases may require additional appointments or longer treatment times.
Root canal therapy is typically performed under local anesthesia, which means that the area around the affected tooth will be numb during the procedure. Most patients report feeling little to no pain during the procedure itself. After the procedure, some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. However, any discomfort should gradually subside as the tooth heals. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for proper care and take any prescribed medications as directed to help minimize any discomfort or complications after the procedure.
Root canal therapy is an effective way to save a severely damaged or infected tooth and avoid more invasive procedures. If you are experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms, give our Grand Haven office a call at (616) 842-2850 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment and discover if root canal therapy is the best option for you. We’re proud to serve Michigan patients in Norton Shores, Ferrysburg, Spring Lake, and the surrounding areas.