Serving Short Hills, NJ
Expert Root Canal Treatment for a Healthier, Lasting Smile
Teeth are made up of a hard outer enamel layer, followed by dentin, and beneath that, the pulp — a soft tissue containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Normally, the pulp is well-protected by the enamel and dentin. However, if bacteria penetrate through a deep cavity, fracture, or injury to the tooth, an infection can occur, affecting the pulp.
Why Root Canal Treatment is Necessary
An infected tooth can cause severe pain, and if left untreated, the pain will only worsen. In such cases, extraction may be the last resort, but we always aim to preserve your natural tooth.
Root canal treatment allows our dentists to remove the infection, saving the tooth and preventing complications like bone loss and shifting teeth. It offers a more comfortable solution with a quicker recovery than extraction, helping to restore your oral health while keeping your smile intact.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Watch for these common signs of an infected or abscessed tooth:
- Intense tooth pain
- Heightened tooth sensitivity
- Pain or swelling in the jaw
- A small pimple-like bump on the gum
- Swollen, red, or inflamed gums
- Unpleasant taste or odor in the mouth
If you experience any of these symptoms and suspect a tooth infection, contact our Short Hills dental office immediately. An infected root canal requires prompt attention to protect your comfort, overall health, and well-being.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
We understand that root canals can be a source of anxiety for many patients, but rest assured, it’s a manageable procedure. Our dentists utilize advanced 3D cone-beam (CBCT) imaging to plan your treatment. This allows us to see your tooth in three dimensions, giving us a clear view of its structure.
With this technology and the use of anesthesia, we can ensure a comfortable and precise procedure. Most patients feel significantly better right after the treatment.
Your Comfort is Our Priority
We understand that dental anxiety is common, which is why we offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation to help you feel relaxed throughout your root canal treatment. To further enhance your comfort, we provide neck pillows, blankets, and TVs in our treatment rooms, ensuring you feel at ease and well taken care of.
Before starting the procedure, our dentist will thoroughly numb the affected tooth with a strong local anesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain. If you’ve come to us in discomfort, you’ll experience immediate relief once the area is numb!
Expert Pain Relief From Our Skilled Dentists
To begin the root canal process, our dentist will create a small opening in your tooth to access the pulp chamber. Using advanced rotary endodontic technology, we efficiently remove the infected pulp tissue, making the procedure faster and more comfortable compared to traditional manual techniques.
Once the infection is cleared, the pulp chamber is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, and the tooth is sealed with a temporary filling to protect it.
Most patients experience only minor soreness for a day or two afterward, which can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
