What a root canal treats
A root canal treats infection or inflammation inside a tooth, usually caused by deep decay, a crack, or repeated dental work. Removing the affected tissue and sealing the tooth lets you keep it, rather than having it extracted.
What to Expect
The procedure itself
Dr. McCartney numbs the tooth, removes the infected pulp, and cleans and shapes the canal inside the root before sealing it. Most teeth that have had a root canal are more brittle afterward, so a crown often follows to protect it long-term.
Signs you might need one
Lingering pain after hot or cold, a dull ache that won't go away, or swelling near a tooth are all reasons to get it checked. Sometimes there's no pain at all and it's only caught on an X-ray. Either way, the sooner it's addressed, the more straightforward the treatment tends to be.
Had a dental emergency with a cracked molar, and Dr McCartney came from a friend with glowing references. He was taking new patients so I called and was able to get in quite quickly to at least see what was going on because at that point I didn't know it was a shattered molar a couple days later he fixed the tooth with a temporary crown
Because he was so gentle and knowledgeable and his staff so courteous and professional, I decided to get my cleanings from the practice.
So far, very happy with the results. They are on time, explain everything fully and very proficient.
