Root Canal Silver Spring MD | What is a Root Canal Procedure

Root Canals An Overview

A root canal can often be a “life-saving” dental treatment for a tooth that is severely decayed or damaged, preserving the natural structure of your bite. Dr. Dechter and Dr. Moy provide experienced dental care for patients that need a root canal and offer same-day endodontics for emergencies.

Advances in materials and techniques have made root canals an easier and more successful treatment, reducing discomfort for patients. We use advanced technology and can perform a root canal and place a dental crown to strengthen the tooth all within one visit to our Silver Spring dentist office near you.

The term “root canal” refers to the inner region or canal of the tooth that contains the pulp, nerves, and other tissue that supported the development of the tooth. Although not considered necessary once the tooth has fully erupted in the gums, the pulp can become infected and lead to pain, swelling, or an abscess.

These are common signs that you may need a root canal in addition to sudden or increasing sensitivity and changes in the color of the tooth.

single-visit root canal in Silver Spring, Maryland

One Visit Endodontics in Silver Spring

If you are experiencing tooth pain and are in need of an emergency root canal, Dr. Dechter and Dr. Moy can offer same-day endodontics to address your needs and quickly restore your oral health.

A root canal can save your tooth and avoid the need for extraction and tooth replacement. Using an advanced treatment method we can complete the root canal process and seal the tooth in one visit. You will leave our office with a comfortable, pain-free smile.

Once the root canal is complete, it is often recommended that a dental crown is placed to improve the integrity of the tooth structure long-term. Using CEREC technology we can often complete this within the same visit, placing a high-quality ceramic or porcelain dental crown immediately.

Root Canals What to Expect

A root canal procedure is typically no more painful than a dental filling and can be completed in one visit by one of our experienced dentists in Silver Spring. Dr. Dechter or Dr. Moy will restore the health and stability of your tooth by removing the infected tooth pulp and replacing it with a biocompatible material.

Most patients are made comfortable with a local anesthetic. We will discuss your needs before the procedure and make sure you are comfortable before, during, and after treatment. You will most likely feel relief from your discomfort and tooth pain once the infected pulp is removed.

The first step is to create a tiny hole in the back of the tooth. This will provide access to the inner chamber and allow us to remove the infected pulp, thoroughly clean the inner root canal and replace it with a special material that will serve to maintain the tooth structure. After removing the infection, this hole is sealed to prevent future infection.

Root Canals FAQs

Does dental insurance cover the cost of a root canal?: Each dental insurance policy is different. We will work with you to determine if your benefits will cover any of your treatment costs and to provide an estimate of your out-of-pocket cost.
Can I eat a normal diet after a root canal?: Yes, although in some cases it may be recommended that you avoid biting down hard on the treated tooth for several days to allow proper healing.
Does a root canal weaken the tooth?: A root canal is only performed on already weakened teeth. Teeth in need of a root canal are decaying. A root canal can help save the tooth from more infection and decay, but the tooth is already damaged and cannot be fully repaired.
How long do root canals last?: Root canals typically last anywhere from 10-15 years depending on their placement, and the patient’s diet and oral care. If you add a crown to your root canal it may add time to its lifespan and make it stronger and more durable.