F.A.Q.

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy

1. What is a root canal?

The root canal is found in  the center in the tooth. It normaly contains the pulp which consists of nerves, arteries and veins. When the canal has become infected, root canal therapy is needed to clean out the diseased tissue and then seal the inside of the tooth.

2. Is it going to hurt?

With advances in modern technology, root canal treatments are much easier to have done than they used to be. Most people report that it is similar to having a filing placed. Ask Dr. Vaughn and his staff about how we can make your visit more comfortable.

3. How much time will it take?

After your examination, treatment usually lasts for 60-90 minutes. In some cases, several visits are neccessary to get past obstructions and adequately clean the canals. Curved roots and calcified canals can also increase the complexity and therefore the treatment time. If you have a portable listening device with headphones (such as an MP3 player, walkman, personal CD player etc), feel free to bring it with you if you like.

Should I stop taking my medications before the visit?

No.  Patients should take all medications as perscribed by their doctor. A thorough review of your medical history will be done to ensure that our treatment does not interfere with the medications you are already taking.

Can I eat after my root canal?

When non-surgical root canal therapy (NSRCT) is complete, a temporary filling will be placed into the top of the tooth so that food and debris do not pack into the tooth. This will be soft for several hours. Plan for a soft meal after your visit, and avoid foods such as Doritos, popcorn, and nuts.

What can I expect to feel after my root canal?

The pain that was caused by hot and cold will be gone imediately. However, it is common for teeth to be tender to chewing for one to two days after having a root canal. The vast majority of patients will only need mild over-the-counter pain medications to relieve the discomfort. If you have pain that lasts longer or is more severe, please contact Dr. Vaughn at the emergency number found on his card for assistance.

How long do I wait to see my regular dentist?

Make an appointment right away! Unless otherwise directed by Dr. Vaughn, there is no need to wait, and waiting could mean the loss of the tooth. Often decay or cracks in the tooth is what caused the tooth to need a root canal. This prior damage along with additional drilling neccessary for treatment can leave a tooth at great risk of further fracture. It is essential to success that the tooth is properly restored by your general dentist as soon as possible. Your referring dentist will build-up and/or place a crown on the tooth to minimize risk of recontamination and root fracture so that your investment in dental health is protected.

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