Root Canal Therapy in Nashua, NH: Save Your Tooth with Expert Endodontic Care at Nashua Family Dental

Root canal therapy is one of the most common procedures in endodontics, a dental specialty focused on the nerves of the teeth. At Nashua Family Dental, we understand the fear that often surrounds root canal procedures, but with modern techniques and advanced technology, root canal therapy is a straightforward and comfortable way to save an infected tooth. Most root canals are performed right in our Nashua office, but for more complex cases, we may refer you to a local endodontist. Following the root canal, we handle the restorative aspect of your treatment, which often involves placing a crown on the affected tooth to protect and restore its function.

Understanding Root Canal Therapy

A root canal becomes necessary when the nerves inside a tooth become infected, usually due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, or trauma. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, potentially leading to an abscess, bone loss, or even tooth loss. Root canal therapy involves removing the infected nerves, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection.

Common Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection

While some patients may not experience symptoms, you should contact Nashua Family Dental if you notice any of the following:

• Persistent toothache or jaw pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums around a specific tooth
• Sharp pain when biting or chewing
• Discoloration of the affected tooth

Early intervention is key to preserving the health of your tooth and preventing more serious complications.

What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure

The root canal process begins with numbing the area around the affected tooth using a local anesthetic, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Here’s what to expect:

1. Accessing the Root Canal: The dentist will create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected root canal.
2. Removing the Infection: Using specialized instruments, the infected tissue and nerves are carefully removed, and the canal is cleaned to eliminate any remaining bacteria.
3. Filling the Canal: Once cleaned, the empty canal is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the space and prevents reinfection.
4. Restoring the Tooth: A crown is highly recommended after root canal therapy to restore the tooth’s strength and appearance. With our in-office CEREC technology, we can design, fabricate, and place a custom porcelain crown in a single visit, minimizing the time you spend in the dental chair.

Comfortable, Same-Day Root Canal Treatment

Our goal is to make your root canal experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. With modern anesthetics and pain management techniques, most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure. You may feel some soreness afterward, but over-the-counter pain relievers are typically sufficient to manage it. Our same-day crown placement allows you to leave our office with a fully restored tooth, saving you time and reducing the number of visits needed.

Root Canal FAQs

• What is a root canal?
  A root canal refers to the inner part of the tooth where the pulp and nerves reside. When this area becomes infected due to decay or injury, root canal therapy is required to clean the infection and save the tooth.

• Is a root canal painful?
  Thanks to advancements in dental techniques and anesthetics, root canals are no more painful than a routine filling. Any discomfort you may feel is usually mild and can be managed with pain medication.

• What happens if I don’t have a root canal?
  Without treatment, the infection can spread, leading to severe pain, abscess formation, and potential tooth or bone loss. Untreated infections can also cause systemic health issues, making timely intervention critical.

• How much does a root canal cost?
  The cost of a root canal can vary based on the complexity of the case and the tooth involved. Root canals are often covered, at least in part, by dental insurance. We provide cost estimates and work with you to maximize your insurance benefits.

• Are there any restrictions after a root canal?
  After the procedure, avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your crown is placed to prevent damage. Soft foods and gentle chewing are recommended until the tooth has fully healed.

• How long does your mouth hurt after a root canal?
  It’s normal to experience some tenderness for a few days following the procedure. This mild discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter painkillers and will gradually subside as the tooth heals.

Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation Today

Don’t let fear of a root canal keep you from seeking the care you need. At Nashua Family Dental, we offer comfortable, efficient root canal therapy to save your tooth and relieve pain. Contact us today at (603) 881-4022 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Let us help you restore your dental health with expert endodontic care in Nashua, NH.