Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection.  In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.

Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would die and have to be removed.  Many patients believe that removing a tooth that has problems is the solution, but what is not realized is that extracting (pulling) a tooth will ultimately be more costly and cause significant problems for adjacent teeth.

Root canal treatment is highly successful and usually lasts a lifetime, although on occasion, a tooth will have to be retreated due to new infections.

Signs and symptoms for possible root canal therapy:

  • An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold.
  • Severe toothache pain.
  • Sometimes no symptoms are present.
  • Swelling and/or tenderness.

Reasons for root canal therapy:

  • Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
  • Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
  • Injury or trauma to the tooth.

What does root canal therapy involve?

A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).

While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva.  An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria.  If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments.

Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.

At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials.  A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth.  In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed.  This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function.

After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.

You will be given care instructions after each appointment.  Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.

Testimonials.

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Testimonials

My previous dentist left me in a horrendous state. I was in constant discomfort and at the end of my rope. I didn't know if I could ever get back to normal, and I was worried I would go broke trying to fix the damage that was done. Dr. Michael Gilman accepted me as a patient knowing my situation. He was exactly what I needed, a dentist that cares more about his patients than his ego. He is a true professional who is patient, caring and compassionate. It was a long process but he never made me feel like a burden. His entire staff is wonderful and caring. His office is a very positive environment. His rates are reasonable and he didn't try to bleed me for every penny like my previous dentist. Now I feel a sense of normalcy for the first time in several years, and I know that I'm in good hands whenever I need dental work. I'll never take that for granted again. I'm so thankful I found Dr. Gilman, and I can't recommend him highly enough.

Rich R.

Dr. Michael was recommended to me by a good friend. I was more than a little apprehensive about having some significant dental work done. I found Dr. Michael and his staff to be top notch professionals. He inspired confidence in me and his staff reinforced that feeling by being thoroughly first class all the way. He explains things in a way that makes them right-sized and doable. My apprehension went away and his highly skilled hands have done some amazing work on my dental issues. I am very pleased with the results. This is THE dentist for me, bar none.

Alan S.

Teri is the the best dental hygienist I have experienced, such good work! She has great attention to detail and a gentle touch at the same time. Teri is a wonderful person! The whole staff is so friendly! The first time I have looked forward to my visit to the dentist is at Dr. Gilmans office!

Andy H.

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Contact Us.We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form.

Contact Us

We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.




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Larry E. Gilman, DDS & Michael S. Gilman, DDS

5220 Neil Road, Ste 210, Reno, NV 89502

Phone:(775) 826-7883