Endodontics in Decatur, GA

Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on treating the inside of the tooth—specifically the dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the roots of a tooth.

The most common endodontic procedure is a root canal, which is done to remove infected or damaged pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, and seal it to prevent further infection.

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What Is a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy treats infection in the tooth pulp—the soft inner tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. We remove the infected nerve, eliminating pain and allowing your body to recognize the tooth as healthy again.

Modern root canal treatment at O’Shea Dentistry is comfortable and effective. We ensure infections are controlled before treatment, achieving complete anesthesia so you feel no discomfort. With proper treatment, your natural tooth can be preserved for a lifetime.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Persistent Tooth Pain

One of the most common indicators you may need root canal therapy is persistent, severe pain that doesn’t resolve with over-the-counter pain relievers. This pain often intensifies when chewing or applying pressure to the affected tooth. While not all tooth pain requires a root canal, persistent discomfort should never be ignored, as it typically signals an underlying problem that will worsen without treatment.

Sensitivity to Temperature

Does drinking hot coffee or enjoying ice cream cause sharp, lingering pain? Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, particularly when the sensation persists even after the stimulus is removed, often indicates pulp inflammation or infection. This heightened sensitivity occurs because the damaged nerves inside your tooth are becoming increasingly irritated and may require endodontic treatment to address.

Swelling and Tenderness

Inflammation or infection within your tooth can spread to surrounding tissues, causing swelling in your gums, face, or neck. You might notice tender, swollen gums near the affected tooth or experience a small, pimple-like bump on the gum tissue—known as a dental abscess. These signs indicate that infection has progressed and requires prompt professional attention to prevent more serious health complications.

Tooth Discoloration

A tooth that becomes noticeably darker than surrounding teeth may indicate damage to the pulp inside. When the internal tissue becomes infected or the nerve dies, the tooth often takes on a grayish-black appearance. This discoloration typically won’t respond to whitening treatments because the problem lies within the tooth structure rather than on the surface, making root canal treatment the appropriate solution.

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The Procedures and Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Despite common misconceptions, modern root canal treatment is typically as comfortable as getting a filling. The procedure involves numbing the tooth and surrounding area, removing the infected or inflamed pulp, and thoroughly cleaning the inside of the tooth. The root canals are then filled and sealed, and a crown is usually placed to protect the tooth and restore its full function.

A successful root canal treatment has many benefits: it can relieve toothache, prevent the spread of infection, save your natural tooth, and preserve your natural smile.

FAQs

Does Getting a Root Canal Hurt?
Patients are always surprised by how easy getting a root canal is. Most say it’s comparable to getting a filling. At O’Shea Dentistry, we go the extra mile to ensure our patients are comfortable and relaxed. We’ll get you set up with blankets, pillows, eye protection, music, and anything else you need to relax before starting treatment. If you suffer from dental anxiety, let us know. We offer several options to help you relax, including nitrous oxide and oral sedation. We’ll cater our treatment to your needs.
Are Root Canals Safe?
Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures with roughly 25 million performed every year. While this treatment is proven to eliminate tooth infections, misinformation continues to circulate on the internet that may cause patients to question the safety of endodontics. This false information is based on poor research methods as well as an absence of knowledge regarding bacteria and it’s pathological abilities. At O’Shea Dentistry, we are committed to providing safe, high-quality care and are happy to answer all your questions on this topic to help you feel comfortable and confident in your treatment with us.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
Root canal treatment usually takes about 30-90 minutes to complete. Occasionally, root canal treatment will be divided into two separate appointments if your tooth needs to be medicated. This medication is placed in your tooth to kill bacteria and prepare the tooth to be filled with root canal filling materials.

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