Dental Cleaning | Divine Smiles

Root Canals

Root canal treatment, or endodontics, is a procedure designed to treat issues with the soft pulp (nerve) tissue inside the tooth. While it's often thought to be painful, it's typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling and is one of the most effective ways to relieve certain types of tooth pain.

A root canal becomes necessary when infection or inflammation develops in the pulp, which contains blood vessels, connective tissue, and nerve cells. This can cause intense pain that may subside temporarily, but without treatment, the infection can lead to an abscess and potentially affect other parts of the body.

The Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
● Preserves Natural Teeth: Root canal treatment allows you to keep your natural teeth, avoiding the need for extraction and the potential complications of tooth loss.● Relieves Pain and Discomfort: By removing the infected pulp and eliminating the source of infection, root canal therapy can provide immediate relief from tooth pain and discomfort.● Prevents Spread of Infection: Root canal treatment prevents the spread of infection to neighboring teeth, gums, and surrounding bone, preserving your overall oral health.● Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to tooth extraction followed by replacement options like dental implants or bridges, root canal therapy is often a more cost-effective and conservative treatment option.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Persistent tooth pain, lingering sensitivity to temperature, gum swelling, and tooth discoloration are all signs that the inner pulp of a tooth may be infected or inflamed. These symptoms often indicate the need for a root canal—a procedure designed to remove damaged tissue, relieve pain, and save the natural tooth before the infection spreads.

How To Prevent Root Canals

The best way to prevent a root canal is to maintain strong oral hygiene habits and attend regular dental checkups. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and avoiding excessive sugary foods can help protect your teeth from decay. Routine professional cleanings allow your dentist to catch issues like cavities or cracks early—before they reach the pulp. Wearing a mouthguard during sports and addressing teeth grinding can also help prevent trauma that could lead to infection. Early intervention is key to avoiding more serious treatments like a root canal.

What is a root canal treatment?

A root canal is a procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside the tooth. It removes damaged pulp tissue, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and seals the space to preserve your natural tooth.

Will the procedure hurt?

Not at all. At Divine Smiles, we use advanced techniques and local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Most patients say the procedure feels similar to getting a filling.

What causes the infection?

Common causes include deep cavities, cracks or chips in the tooth, past trauma, or repeated dental work on the same tooth—all of which can allow bacteria to enter the pulp.

How long does a root canal take?

Most root canals are completed in one to two visits, depending on the condition of the tooth and the level of infection.

What happens after treatment?

After your root canal, we’ll usually recommend placing a crown to protect and restore the tooth’s strength and function. You may feel mild soreness for a day or two, but most patients return to normal activities the same day.

Can the tooth get reinfected?

While rare, reinfection can happen if the tooth wasn’t properly sealed or if new damage occurs. In such cases, retreatment or a minor surgical procedure may be needed.

Divine Smiles

Your oral health and comfort are our top priorities. Whether you have a question, need to schedule an appointment, or want to learn more about our services, we’re here for you!

1574 Chapel St New Haven CT 06511

(203) 865 1480

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Hours

Monday - Thursday 9am - 4pm

Friday 8:30am-2:30pm

Saturday Closed

Sunday 10am-4pm