Root Canal Therapy
If your tooth has sustained significant trauma or experienced extensive decay, you may need root canal therapy to save the tooth. Before treatment begins, Dr. Brothman will perform a careful examination and take appropriate X-rays to determine the source of your discomfort.
What happens during root canal therapy?
Dr. Brothman will first administer a local anesthetic so that you will stay comfortable throughout the root canal therapy. To prepare your tooth, we will cover the area with a sheet of latex called a rubber dam, which allows Dr. Brothman to isolate the tooth from the bacteria in the saliva and keep the treatment area clean and dry. If you have a latex allergy, we can use a vinyl sheet.
Step 1. After the area is fully anesthetized, Dr. Brothman makes an opening through the tooth to reach the affected pulp and removes the diseased tissue.
Step 2. Dr. Brothman then cleans, shapes, and medicates the canals to eradicate the infection. He may also prescribe an antibiotic, if necessary. Depending on the condition of the tooth, he will place a temporary filling in your tooth at the end of this visit.
Step 3. Once he has completely cleaned the canals, Dr. Brothman places sterile filling material inside the canals to prevent bacteria from reentering the root canal system.
Step 4. After Dr. Brothman finishes the root canal therapy, you will need a permanent restoration, usually a full crown or bonded filling, to replace the temporary filling. Your restorative dentist will provide this service, and patients need to schedule this work in a timely manner to prevent chipping or fracture of the treated tooth.
Don't chew or bite with the treated tooth until you have it restored by your dentist. Once your dentist finishes with the tooth, remember to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular checkups. We also recommend a re-evaluation appointment in six months to assess the long-term healing of the treated tooth.
You deserve a solid, healthy smile. Call our endodontist's practice to make an appointment with Dr. Brothman and discuss the benefits of root canal therapy. Our Bala Cynwyd practice serves patients from Bryn Mawr, Penn Valley, Narberth, Chestunt Hill, and the surrounding areas.
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