FAQ

Thanks to modern techniques and anesthetics, most patients say root canals are no more painful than getting a filling.

We require a referral to set up an appointment. Please speak with your general dentist or healthcare provider to obtain a referral before contacting us.

It’s normal to feel mild soreness for a few days, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients return to their regular activities the next day, and we’ll guide you through any aftercare steps to ensure proper healing.

We will take x-rays during your visit. Our doctors utilize the latest in digital x-ray technology. Digital x-rays allow the doctors to quickly and reliably determine the course of treatment you may require. Also, digital x-rays reduce your radiation exposure significantly, by 50-85%.

Root canal treatment can usually be completed in one visit. In some cases, a second visit is required. Please allow 2 hours for your office visit.  We use local anesthetic to numb the area; we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) if you would like during the procedure.  There is no need for a driver as nitrous oxide is out of your system within 5-10 minutes of direct oxygen given.  

You will be given instructions by the staff after your treatment. If you are given medications, please take as directed. It is often necessary to return to your referring dentist to receive an appropriate restoration (a cap or a crown), which will serve as protection for the tooth. Should you neglect to return for the proper restoration, there is an increased risk of failure of endodontic treatment, tooth fracture, and/or premature loss of the tooth.

Yes, for most root canal treatments, we recommend that patients return to the office 6-12 months after the procedure was finished to verify healing.

It is normal to experience soreness for 1 to 2 weeks following treatment. During the first few days of healing, try to avoid biting or chewing in the treated area. In the unlikely event that you have discomfort that you can’t control with ordinary pain relievers, or if you notice any facial swelling, immediately call our office or seek medical attention.

The alternative to root canal therapy is the removal of the tooth. Once the pulp is infected, it cannot heal, and it is not recommended to leave the infected tooth in the mouth. The risks of doing so are emergency pain and/or swelling ranging from minor to needing hospitalization. While some people would prefer an extraction, it is usually advisable to keep the natural teeth if possible.

The doctors and staff at Pine Lakes Endodontics are here for you with a friendly chairside manner. Also, if you are interested in receiving any anxiety reducing agents, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedatives, please inform our staff. We gladly provide nitrous oxide to our patients upon request, but should you be interested in oral sedatives, this must be arranged beforehand through your medical doctor, your general dentist, or through our office following an appropriate consultation.

Patients with heart problems or joint replacements may be accustomed to taking an antibiotic before their dental appointments. However, recent changes in the guidelines may no longer require this. Please consult with your physician to determine whether or not you require an antibiotic before dental appointments.