Root Canals in Jenkintown 

Root canals may sound like a frightening procedure, but they’re actually quite commonplace and can be performed right in our office at Elkins Park Dental Innovations. If you need a root canal in Jenkintown, read to discover everything you need to know and how our team can help protect your smile. 

What Is a Root Canal?

Root canals, also known as endodontic therapy, are an advanced form of dental therapy that restore the damaged soft tissue at the tooth’s center. After many years of use, teeth can become worn down and vulnerable to decay. This weakens the tooth’s structural integrity and makes it susceptible to cracks or chips, eventually causing the pulp inside to become exposed. When this happens, infections can set in, which ultimately causes pain and swelling in the surrounding gums and tissues. This can be very painful so patients may seek out a solution. At Elkins Park Dental Innovations, we offer root canals in Jenkintown, and we can help you.

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for root canals in the Jenkintown, PA area.

If you’re not sure if you need a root canal, here are some signs that may indicate it’s time to see our experienced team:

• Severe toothache pain that increases when chewing or applying pressure

• Prolonged sensitivity or pain after eating hot or cold foods or beverages

• Discoloration (a darkening) of a tooth

• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums

• A small bump on the gum line near an infected tooth

How Is a Root Canal Performed?

The first step is numbing your mouth with local anesthesia for about 15 minutes. Then, our dentist will use a special needle to numb the area around your tooth and clean out any infected tissue. Next, we will clean out the canal using special brushes and absorbent material specific to your tooth’s shape. Once they have cleaned the canal, our dentists will fill it with a sterile material that hardens as it sets, and then it is sealed off with a cap. Depending on how complicated your case is, the process takes between 45 minutes and 2 hours.

Your Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery process of a root canal can be uncomfortable, but knowing what to expect and how to care for yourself after the procedure can help you feel more confident in the healing process. However, we recommend using an ice pack or cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling and inflammation. This will also help to numb any pain.

Can You Prevent Needing a Root Canal?

You can take some simple measures to help you prevent needing a root canal. We recommend brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once daily. To ensure that you’re doing this thoroughly and effectively, use toothpaste with fluoride and consider getting professional dental cleanings twice annually. In addition, avoid sugary foods whenever possible, especially if they are sticky or hard. These can contribute to tooth decay and cause you to need a root canal.

Contact Us Today

Our friendly dentist and expert team will strive to provide comfortable and painless dental services in a welcoming environment. Call us with any questions you may have or to make an appointment today.