Treatment Series

For Our Patients

1355 S. Higley Rd.
Suite 116
Gilbert, AZ 85296

Office: 480-545-4120
Fax: 480-545-4123

Consultation

A digital x-ray and comprehensive examination is performed to determine if root canal treatment is required and what options are available for treatment. Any questions you have will be answered at this appointment. When retreatment or surgery is required a second appointment will be arranged.

Treatment

A local anesthetic is given and a rubber dam is placed to isolate the tooth to keep it dry and clean during the procedure. An opening is then painlessly made through the top of the tooth which allows the root canals to be cleaned, shaped and filled with a sealing material to prevent reinfection.

Retreatment of a previous root canal involves removing old material and replacing it with new sealer (gutta percha). This may also mean removing the existing restoration. Occasionally, the diagnosis may suggest a surgical procedure through the gum in order to seal the tooth properly.

Treatment Follow-Up

What Should I Expect following My Treatment?

The root canal system inside your tooth has been thoroughly cleaned, and the irritated tissue and bacteria that have caused you to need root canal treatment are gone.

It is possible that your tooth will be sore for a day or two following treatment as your body undergoes the healing process. You may also experience some tenderness in your jaw from keeping it open for a long time. This is a perfectly normal reaction. These symptoms are temporary and usually can be relieved by over-the counter medications.

It is important for you to follow the instructions on how to take over-the counter and any medications prescribed for you. Remember that narcotic medications may make you drowsy, and caution should be exercised in operating dangerous machinery or driving a car after taking them.

Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your root canal treatment has been completed. However, if you have severe pain or pressure that lasts more than a few days, contact our office at 480-545-4120. An emergency contact number is available at 1-800-879-8198.

        Instructions For
          Post-Treatment Care
        Do not eat anything until the numbness in your mouth
            wears off. This will prevent you from biting your cheek or tongue.
Do not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have
            had it restored by your dentist.
If the opening in your tooth was restored with a temporary filling material, it is not unusual for a thin layer to wear off in-between appointments.  However, if you think the entire filling has come out, contact our office
Be sure to brush and floss your teeth as normal. 
Contact our office right away if you develop any of the
          following:
            a visible swelling inside or outside of your mouth;
an allergic reaction to medication, including rash, hives or itching (Nausea is not an allergic reaction);
 a return of original symptoms; 
your bite feels uneven.

          

      

Taking Care Of Your Tooth

When a root canal treatment is completed you have completed only one step in returning your tooth to full function. A proper final restoration of the tooth is necessary to ensure long-term vitality of your tooth. Contact your dentist within two weeks to arrange your next appointment. If your tooth is being treated in more than one visit by our office, do not return to your dentist for the final restoration until the root canal treatment is completed.

Kerr Endodontics

Endodontics

Gilbert, AZ

480-545-4120