Endodontics is the dental specialty that deals with the nerves of the teeth. Root canals are probably the most notorious procedure in dentistry and the most common procedure relating to endodontics. When a tooth becomes infected it is usually related to the nerves in the root of the tooth. The infected nerves need to be removed. If left untreated an infection can turn into an abscess, which is a much more serious problem that includes bone loss in the jaw.
The area around the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic to start the procedure. The dentist will then drill down into the tooth to create an opening into the canal. They will then be able to remove infected tissue and clean the canal. After the infection has been removed, the space if filled with a sealant called gutta percha. It is highly recommended that a tooth that has undergone a root canal is fitted with a crown. This will improve the appearance of the tooth, and will also make it much more likely that the root canal is successful.
"Root canal" has become a scary term for dental patients to hear, but the benefits of the procedure and advances in dental technology have made it much less "scary". Local anesthetics and proper pain medication allow the procedure to be performed with little to no pain in most cases. There may be some soreness following the procedure, but that is normal for most dental procedures. Over the counter painkillers are usually enough to relieve any pain afterwards, but your dentist may prescribe medication. The procedure will also relieve you from pain caused by the infection allowing you to enjoy all the foods you love without any pain from heat, cold, or biting too hard. If you are experiencing pain consult your dentist today.
I love going to this dental office. Dr. Wagner and her staff are very caring. They do a great job and explain the procedures well.
Amy StudebakerWell run office. They are very conscientious in helping individuals maintain healthy teeth.
Roger KinseyUpdate 10/8/24: Again I can’t express enough how pleased I am with Dr Wagner and her staff, especially Linda my hygienist! She is thorough and gentle when working on my... read more
Cyndi Maddox (Cyndi)The kindest group of ladies you’ll ever find from reception to dentist. I hadn’t been to the dentist in about 5 years (due to fear among other things). I finally... read more
Hayden PhillipsCalled in the morning and seen the same day for a lose crown. Dr. Wagner has always taken great care of our family dental needs!
Kevin GregoryConsistently pleased with the kindness I’m met with by the staff and the quality of my routine cleanings
Lukas SmithJennifer, Dental Hygienist was thorough with my exam and cleaning! Thank You, Jennifer!
Amber NugentDr. Susan Wagner and her staff are amazing. They are very professional, gentle, efficient and experienced. They are also calm and very kind. I appreciate having such a great experience... read more
Amy TomeyEverything went well.. the staff is so friendly. Susan (the dentist) takes time to explain what all is going in and does not rush you out the door. ... read more
Pam StultzSuccess stories that speak for themselves