Relieve Tooth Pain While Preserving Your Natural Smile
A painful tooth does not automatically need to be removed. When infection or inflammation affects the tissue inside a tooth, root canal therapy may relieve the problem while allowing you to keep the natural tooth.
At The Dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Kirian provides root canal therapy in Newark, Ohio, and evaluates each tooth individually. He considers the damage, remaining tooth structure and your goals before explaining whether treatment is appropriate.
Call 740-366-1236 to schedule an evaluation with our dentist. Tell us about any pain or swelling so we can help determine how promptly you need care.
What Root Canal Treatment Can Help Accomplish
- Address the source of discomfort: Remove infected or inflamed tissue from inside the tooth.
- Preserve a restorable tooth: Treat the internal problem while keeping the tooth’s remaining structure.
- Restore everyday function: Plan the final restoration so the treated tooth can return to chewing.
- Clarify your options: Understand whether treatment here, specialist care or another approach fits your situation.
When a Tooth Needs More Than a Filling
Inside each tooth is soft tissue called pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Deep decay, a crack, injury or repeated treatment can damage this tissue. Root canal therapy is a type of endodontic care that treats problems inside the tooth.
Symptoms that deserve an examination include:
- Persistent toothache or pain when biting
- Sensitivity to heat or cold that lingers
- Swelling or tenderness near a tooth
- A recurring pimple-like bump on the gum
- A tooth that has darkened or been injured
These symptoms can have different causes. An examination and appropriate imaging help determine whether you need a root canal, a filling, an adjustment or another treatment.
If swelling makes it difficult to breathe or swallow, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Careful Diagnosis and Referral When Needed
Dr. Kirian uses examination findings and diagnostic imaging to assess the tooth and surrounding tissues. When indicated, cone beam CT imaging helps him evaluate the roots and canal anatomy in three dimensions.
Some cases are better managed by an endodontist, a dentist with specialist training in root canal treatment. Dr. Kirian may refer teeth with extreme canal curves, difficult anatomy, previous root canal treatment or other complexity.
The recommendation is based on what the tooth needs. If specialist treatment is appropriate, we will explain why and discuss the restoration needed afterward.
Comfort Comes Before Treatment Begins
Dr. Kirian emphasizes effective local anesthesia and gives patients breaks when needed. Tell us if you are anxious, have had trouble getting numb in the past or feel uncomfortable during treatment.
We explain the planned procedure and check your comfort before proceeding. Root canal treatment is intended to address the painful condition inside the tooth, and your questions are welcome throughout your care.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
- Assess the tooth: We examine the tooth, review any needed imaging and discuss the treatment options.
- Numb and isolate: Local anesthesia helps keep you comfortable, and the tooth is isolated for treatment.
- Clean the canals: An opening provides access to remove the affected pulp and clean and shape the canal spaces.
- Fill and seal: The prepared canals are filled and sealed. A temporary restoration may protect the opening between stages of care.
- Restore the tooth: A final restoration protects the tooth and restores its function.
The number of appointments depends on the tooth and treatment required. We will explain the expected sequence and any referral before care begins.
The Final Restoration Matters
Completing the root canal is one part of saving the tooth. The remaining structure also needs an appropriate seal and protection from chewing forces.
Many back teeth need a dental crown. Other teeth may be restored with a filling or another suitable restoration. Dr. Kirian will explain the recommendation for your tooth.
Follow your aftercare instructions and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it has been restored as directed. Contact us about worsening pain, new swelling, a lost temporary restoration or a bite that feels uneven.
Root Canal Treatment or Extraction?
Saving a tooth depends on more than treating its canals. The extent of a fracture, remaining tooth structure, supporting tissues and ability to restore the tooth all matter.
If the tooth cannot be predictably restored, we can discuss removal and replacement options such as a bridge or an implant. You will have an opportunity to understand the options and how they fit your circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy
Does a toothache mean I need a root canal?
No. Tooth pain can have several causes, and some problems need different treatment. Dr. Kirian examines the tooth and uses appropriate diagnostic tests before recommending care.
Will Dr. Kirian perform my root canal or refer me?
That depends on the tooth and its complexity. Dr. Kirian provides root canal treatment and refers cases such as difficult canal anatomy or retreatment when specialist care is more appropriate.
Can you evaluate a painful tooth the same day?
Our team tries to arrange same-day evaluation when possible. Call to discuss your symptoms and availability. Evaluation does not necessarily mean root canal treatment can be completed that day.
Will I be sore afterward?
Some tenderness can occur for a few days. Follow the instructions provided for your care, and contact us if pain worsens, swelling develops or symptoms are not improving.
Will I definitely need a crown?
The final restoration depends on the tooth’s location, condition and remaining structure. Back teeth often need crowns to protect them during chewing. We will explain what your tooth requires.
Can a tooth that already had a root canal be treated again?
Sometimes retreatment is possible, but the cause of the problem needs to be assessed. Dr. Kirian may refer previously treated teeth to an endodontist for evaluation.
How much does root canal treatment cost?
The cost depends on the tooth, complexity, provider and final restoration required. After evaluation, we can explain the recommended treatment and associated fees.
Get Answers About Your Painful Tooth
Call 740-366-1236 or contact our office to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Kirian in Newark, OH. We will assess the problem, explain your options and help you take the next step.