Are there any alternative treatments for root canal?

An extraction (removal) of a tooth maybe an inexpensive and quick option yet many times is not in the best interest of the patients’ long term dental health. Extractions can lead to other teeth moving into the now void space, food traps, and future expensive restorations. Now with the latest in Laser technology by using minimally invasive treatment and decontaminate the infected tooth. The use of the laser debrides and sterilizes the inside of the tooth and greatly decreases the possibility of future re-infection or failure of root canals. If you are experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity or swelling, it is important to act quickly, not only to relieve your pain, but also to save the tooth from a possible extraction.


What is root canal treatment?

Root canal therapy, or endodontics, is a branch of dentistry that deals with treatment of dental pulp (nerve) damage and is the best way to directly address the pain and save the tooth. This can be performed by a general dentist or you may be referred to a root canal specialist. During a root canal procedure, infected nerve tissue is cleaned out and replaced with filler to prevent further infection. With proper anesthesia and use of a laser, root canal therapy can be a pain free process. Generally caused by tooth decay or shock, pulp or nerve tissue damage can be an excruciating experience, with symptoms including pain while chewing, sensitivity and swelling. If left untreated, pulp damage can lead to abscesses, or pus-filled infections, and eventually to tooth loss.


Why would I need a root canal procedure?

Teeth in general have a specific function within the mouth and therefore many teeth are specifically worth saving if root canal treatment is possible. An extraction (removal) of a tooth maybe an inexpensive and quick option yet many times is not in the best interest of the patients’ long term dental health. Extractions can lead to other teeth moving into the now void space, food traps, and future expensive restorations.


Are pain pills and antibiotics an acceptable substitute for root canal?

Pain pills and antibiotics an NOT acceptable substitute for root canal as they are only a "band-aid. " The proper healing and confort level of a patient can be helped by the prescription of antibiotics and pain pills.