Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Lorain, OH
Have Questions? We Have Answers!
At your initial appointment, we will learn more about your dental history, conduct an oral exam, share our treatment recommendations, and answer any questions you may have. With that said, we know that many of our patients value doing some research online beforehand, which is why we’ve dedicated this whole section to answering a few FAQs. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for (or you’d simply prefer to speak to our team directly), then don’t hesitate to give us a call!
What is an endodontist?
An endodontist is a specialist who focuses on saving teeth through treatments like root canal therapy. After completing dental school, these doctors undergo an additional two or more years of training to be able to treat even the most complex cases of decayed and damaged teeth.
Are root canals painful?
Although root canals have a reputation for being painful, many patients find the experience no more cumbersome than a standard filling. That’s because the first step of the treatment process is always the same: using a localized anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Plus, our caring and empathetic doctors will make your comfort a priority. We take pride in making your experience the best it can be!
Can I just have the tooth pulled instead of getting a root canal?
Of course, the decision is ultimately up to you. However, we recommend preserving your natural tooth whenever possible. There are a few reasons for this. One important reason is that the new gap in your smile can negatively impact your confidence, bite, and even speech. Therefore, the tooth will need to be replaced with a solution like a dental bridge or implant. This can require a higher investment of your time and money, so we recommend saving your natural tooth unless that’s no longer feasible.
Do I need sedation when having root canal treatment?
No, you don’t need sedation when having root canal treatment. Often, it’s recommended for patients with particularly complex cases or those who have struggled with dental-related anxiety in the past. Of course, the problem area of your mouth will be numbed for the procedure, so, if that’s enough to keep you calm and comfortable, then you don’t need sedation dentistry.
Can I eat after a root canal?
First, it’s worth noting that you should not eat until the numbing agent has worn off. Otherwise, you might accidentally bite your tongue or lip, resulting in a serious soft tissue injury. Since the treated tooth will likely feel sore or sensitive, we recommend avoiding that side of your mouth when it comes time for you to eat for at least 24 hours. Sticking to soft, nutrient-dense foods is often helpful, like yogurt, vegetable soup, and oatmeal.
Is it possible to need a root canal in a tooth that already had one?
Although root canal therapy has an extremely high success rate, a previously root canal treated tooth can get infected again. Typically, this is the result of delayed restoration of the tooth (following the root canal procedure), a complicated canal structure that may not have been treated sufficiently during the first root canal, or a cracked, loose, or broken crown/filling, which can allow new decay or infection to get into the tooth.
