FAQs
Q. Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?
A. During the procedure you will be numb similar to when you have a filling placed. After the procedure it is common to have some tenderness much like a bruised feeling when you chew on the tooth. We recommend taking ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Aspirin to alleviate this discomfort.
Q. Will I need a crown after my root canal?
A. Each tooth is evaluated on a case by case basis. With molar teeth, it is usually recommended because these teeth do a majority of the heavy crunching and grinding of foods.
Q. How can I tell if I need a root canal?
A. Teeth that require a root canal may have sensitivity to hot and cold, biting pressure, or may have a constant toothache, swelling or throbbing. Some teeth will have no pain or sensitivity at all, but your dentist may have seen something on your x-ray that indicates the need for a root canal. Dr Dettori will test your tooth prior to treatment to determine if endodontic treatment is necessary and if the tooth has a good long term prognosis before starting any treatment.
Q. What will happen at my appointment?
A. If you have not already completed the forms in the Patient Registration section of this site, we will provide an ipad for you to use when you arrive in order to complete the registration here at the office. Once they have been reviewed, X-ray(s) may be taken for Dr. Dettori to utilize during the evaluation of your symptoms and testing of the tooth and neighboring teeth so the doctor can determine the appropriate treatment. The tooth will be numbed with local anesthetic before the procedure is initiated. Detailed treatment information is available on specific procedures which may be needed to treat your tooth.
Q. What will happen after my appointment?
A. If your treatment is completed in one appointment, we will place a temporary filling and assist you with setting up your permanent restoration appointment with your general dentist. A report containing the treatment details and a post-operative x-ray will be sent to your dentist. If it is not possible to complete the root canal in one visit, medication will be placed in the tooth then sealed with a temporary filling until your next appointment with us, usually 1-2 weeks later.