FAQ about Root Canal Treatment

Are you or a loved one about to undergo root canal therapy? If so, you may have questions about the upcoming treatment. This is completely normal, and the goal of our Trenton, MI, dentists Dr. Mehul Patel, Dr. Heba Abuhussein, and Dr. Lena Mustafa, is to keep you informed and set your mind at ease. Here are some of the top asked questions about getting root canal treatment:

Why is a root canal performed?

A root canal refers to the passageways that branch off from the center of the tooth (the pulp chamber) all the way to the ends of the tooth roots. This procedure is performed when bacteria has entered the inside of the tooth and irritated or infected the pulp. During root canal therapy, our Trenton, MI, general dentists will remove the pulp, disinfect the tooth, and preserve as much of the tooth’s healthy structure as possible. In essence, a root canal saves teeth.

Is it necessary to get root canal treatment?

When bacteria has affected the health of dental pulp, the only way to treat the problem is through root canal therapy, as the sole alternative is to have the whole tooth extracted.

What is involved in getting a root canal?

Getting a root canal is simple and painless. It begins with us numbing the area around the tooth. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, we access the dental chamber of the tooth in order to carefully extract the pulp and clean out the inside of the tooth to remove any bacteria.

Once the tooth has been disinfected, we will apply a special substance within the tooth to fill the root canals and inside of the chamber, not only to provide the structure with support, but also to prevent bacteria from re-infecting the tooth. Once this is complete, we will place a dental crown over the tooth in order to restore it.

Does it hurt?

Contrary to what you might have heard, getting a root canal is not more invasive than getting a dental filling. Additionally, we make sure to thoroughly numb the area before any work begins.

Just remember—root canals don't cause pain, they alleviate it.

Contact us

Do you have additional questions about getting a root canal? Need to schedule your next cleaning? If so, turn to the dentists at Southshore Dental in Trenton, MI, today by dialing (734) 675-0585!