Root Canals

What are root canals?

A root canal is a type of oral surgery. During treatment, Dr. Cucereanu uses special tools to remove the soft center of your tooth called the pulp. Removing the pulp stops the pain,  preserves your natural tooth, and prevents the need for an extraction.

Why would I need a root canal?

Dr. Cucereanu uses root canals to treat damage to your tooth pulp. Common causes of pulp damage may include:

• Deep decay due to a cavity
• Undergoing extensive dental work
• Chipping or cracking a tooth
• Getting hit in the mouth

If you experience symptoms like pain in your tooth, swelling, or a sensation of heat in your gums, contact Dr. Cucereanu immediately.

What do root canals involve?

Getting a root canal at the practice of Dr. Dorian Cucereanu takes two visits.

First visit

Dr. Cucereanu reviews your dental records and asks about your symptoms. Then, he conducts an oral exam and takes digital X-rays to assess the extent of the damage or decay. If the X-rays confirm that your tooth pulp is infected or inflamed, Dr. Cucereanu moves forward with treatment.

He numbs your mouth with an anesthetic and carefully removes the pulp from the center of your tooth. Then, he fills your tooth with gutta-percha, a soft and squishy material. When the gutta-percha dries, Dr. Cucereanu takes impressions of your tooth and covers it with a temporary crown.

He sends your impressions to a nearby dental lab that designs a permanent dental crown.

Second visit

About a week later, when the lab finishes your crown, you return to Dr. Cucereanu’s office. Dr. Cucereanu removes the temporary crown and replaces it with the permanent one. Then, he provides care instructions.

What is recovery like after root canals?

After a root canal, you may experience some mild swelling, bruising, or bleeding after the anesthesia wears off. Get lots of rest, drink plenty of water, and take your medication as prescribed. 

Dr. Cucereanu recommends eating only soft foods for the first few days, like scrambled eggs, soup, and mashed potatoes. Continue to brush and floss as normal, but be very gentle around the crown. 

How can I prevent the need for a root canal?

The easiest way to prevent the need for a root canal is to practice good oral hygiene. Dr. Cucereanu recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the practice once every six months for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning.

If you’re concerned you might need a root canal, make an appointment at the practice of Dr. Dorian Cucereanu by calling the office or booking online today.