If you are experiencing pain when you eat or drink, it can be incredibly disruptive and difficult to deal with. Thankfully, a root canal can often be a solution, and today’s technology can make root canal therapy simpler than ever. Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS provide this treatment for our Cincinnati patients.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal treatment is a dental procedure which eliminates bacteria from an infected root canal, which prevents further or future tooth infection and can save the natural tooth root. This infection can be painful and must be addressed to maintain the health of the teeth and tissues surrounding the area.
What is a Root Canal Procedure Like?
Inside of the teeth, below the hard enamel and dentin that compose the outer layers, there is soft tissue known as pulp, which contains the nerves and blood supply of the tooth. A root canal occurs when there is an abscess, allowing bacteria to enter and infect the pulp (comprised of blood vessels and nerves), resulting in pain and inflammation as well as damage to the tooth. An abscess can develop in the root canal system as a result of bacteria entering this area due to a deep cavity or chronic irritation to the nerve.
The severe pain and inflammation that can result from an irreversibly irritated or infected tooth can often be solved by root canal therapy, many times in a single visit. Often, an antibiotic is used prior to or after the procedure. During root canal filling, this infected tissue is removed. When this is complete, the inside of the affected tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected before being filled and sealed. Fully developed teeth can survive without the internal nerve because they continue to be nourished by the surrounding tissues of the adjacent teeth. Modern root canal techniques are simple, and the endodontic treatment is similar overall to a filling.
Post-Root Canal Treatment
After a root canal, it’s important to take proper care to ensure proper healing in the treated tooth. It’s common to experience tooth pain after the procedure, but pain relievers can help manage this. You can also use ice packs on your cheek to reduce swelling within the first 24 hours. Stick to soft foods, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, or smoothies, for a few days, especially if the area is sore, and avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, but you should be gentle when brushing and flossing around the treated area until it feels comfortable. Watch for signs of infection, such as severe pain, swelling, or a bad taste in your mouth, and be sure to attend any follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and to get your permanent crown placed once the tooth has healed.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
Patients who have infected pulp within the teeth might require a root canal. Some signs you may need a root canal include pain in the teeth, especially while chewing or biting. You may also notice a blister or swelling adjacent to the tooth, gum tenderness, severe hot or cold sensitivity, spontaneous and lingering ache, deep decay, or fractured tooth. If you notice any of these signs, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Root Canal FAQs
1. What are the signs you need a root canal?
Severe tooth pain when chewing, prolonged sensitivity to hot/cold temperatures, swollen gums, and darkening of the tooth indicate potential pulp infection requiring root canal therapy.
2. Is a root canal procedure painful?
Modern techniques and local anesthesia ensure minimal discomfort during treatment. Most patients report relief from pre-procedure pain post-treatment.
3. How long does a root canal take?
A single-rooted tooth typically requires 30–60 minutes, while multi-rooted teeth may take 90+ minutes. Complex cases might need 2–3 visits.
4. What is the success rate of root canals?
Over 95% of root canals succeed, with treated teeth lasting decades when paired with proper crowns and oral hygiene.
5. Can a root canal fail?
Failure occurs in fewer than 5% of cases, often due to undetected canal branches, cracks, or delayed crown placement. Symptoms include pain, swelling, or abscess recurrence.
Schedule an Appointment
If you believe you may need a root canal, schedule an appointment with Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates DDS in our Cincinnati, OH office. Call (513) 631-6600 or request your appointment online.
