Non-Surgical Root Canals

What is a Non-Surgical Root Canal?

A non-surgical root canal is a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove infected or damaged pulp, the soft center containing blood vessels that help support your tooth.

Unlike tooth extraction, the treatment preserves your natural tooth while eliminating pain and preventing further infection. It’s a common and highly successful dental therapy, saving countless teeth every year.

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What Happens During a Non-Surgical Root Canal?

The procedure begins with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. In some cases, nitrous oxide may also be offered for extra relaxation. Once numb, the dentist carefully removes the infected pulp, cleans the canal system, and seals it to prevent reinfection.

Depending on the complexity of the infection, treatment may take one or more visits. Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure, often experiencing little discomfort.

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When Do You Need a Root Canal?

Root canal treatment is recommended when the pulp becomes infected due to decay, injury, cracks, or repeated dental work. You may notice symptoms like:

• Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity to hot and cold
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the tooth
• Visible damage, cracks, or deep decay
• Discomfort when chewing or biting

Early treatment increases the chances of saving your tooth and avoiding more extensive dental work later.

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How to Care for Your Mouth After a Root Canal

• Continue brushing and flossing gently but thoroughly
• Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until restoration is complete
• Schedule and attend your follow-up appointments for crowns or fillings
• Report any unusual pain, swelling, or discomfort to your dentist as soon as possible
• Maintain regular dental checkups to monitor your tooth and overall oral health