Dr. Lakhkar provides root canals at two locations in Rhode Island: Cranston Cosmetic Dentistry in Cranston, RI and Elite Dentistry of Rhode Island, in East Greenwich, RI.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call our nearest location:
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a restorative dental procedure performed to save a natural tooth that has suffered severe decay or has developed an infection in the pulp of the tooth. Despite what you may have heard, root canals are no more uncomfortable than getting a filling thanks to advancements in technology.
During the procedure, a tiny hole will be drilled into the top of the tooth to allow access to the pulp chamber and the canals within the tooth. The pulp will be removed from the tooth, and all debris and bacteria will be cleaned out. Antibiotic medication may be applied to prevent any infection from returning.
The canals will then be sealed with a biocompatible material. Your tooth will then be covered with a temporary crown until your permanent crown is ready. A root canal typically takes no longer than an hour. Best of all, any pain you were experiencing often goes away immediately. You will be given detailed post-treatment instructions for caring for the tooth after the procedure.
Benefits of A Root Canal
A root canal helps to preserve your natural tooth. Adults do not need the pulp of their tooth, so removing it will not harm the tooth. However, the tooth root is essential for maintaining a strong jawbone, preserving your facial structure, and keeping your teeth stable. That’s why all efforts will be made to save a natural tooth, and why a root canal is a much better option than extracting a decayed, or infected tooth.
Other benefits of receiving root canal therapy include:
- Pain elimination
- Prevents infection from spreading
- Prevents the risk of tooth loss
- Prevents abscess development
- Promotes good oral health
Are You a Good Candidate for a Root Canal?
Candidates for root canal therapy are those who have significant decay in a tooth due to a large cavity, cracked, or infection. If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an infected tooth you are likely a good candidate for a root canal:
- Your gums are darkening
- Your gums are swollen
- It hurts to chew
- Your teeth have suddenly become sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages
- You see a crack in your tooth
- Your tooth has become discolored
- Bumps that look like pimples have developed on the gums
While these are symptoms that you may need a root canal, you’ll need a dentist to diagnose the source of your pain and confirm that a root canal is the best treatment.
Why Choose Us?
Our team takes great pride and joy in helping patients to improve their oral health, and eliminate tooth pain. Aches and pain in your mouth can feel unbearable.
Dr. Lakhkar uses all of the latest dental technologies, techniques, and tools to ensure successful outcomes of root canal therapy. You will not experience any pain during your root canal procedure.
Our team is gentle, skillful, and efficient in treating infected teeth, and root canal therapy can often be completed in about an hour. You’ll be on the road to feeling much better by the time you leave your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
Do you pull the tooth during a root canal?
Will insurance cover a root canal?
Do you offer financing for root canals?
How long is recovery from a root canal?
Contact Us Today
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call our nearest location: