Root Canal Therapy | Rochester & Byron, MN

Why do I need a root canal?

One of the more common reasons is due to bacteria entering into the pulp chamber of the tooth either by a large and deep cavity or crack in the tooth structure. The pulp is the most inner layer of the tooth that contains the nerve and blood supply to the tooth. Once bacteria have reached the pulp, our body’s defense system is not able to fight off the invaders and the nerve may begin to die. As the nerve dies it may or may not hurt. In instances what it hurts spontaneously, to temperature, or to chewing. Infected teeth can quickly turn into a dental emergency. In some cases the bacteria may enter the tooth and exit out the apex (end of the root) cause swelling, pain, and destruction of bone and soft tissues surrounding the tooth. 

Another reason for a root canal may be due to an extreme loss of tooth structure. If there is not enough tooth structure to place a core buildup, a root canal and post may be needed to restore the tooth back to strength and function. 

What is root canal therapy?

A root canal therapy is an endodontic (inside the tooth) therapy that removes the infected nerve and blood supply inside the tooth. The inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped with small hand and rotary files before the area is disinfected. Once the inside of the tooth is disinfected, it is sealed and gutta percha material is placed where the nerve and blood supply used to be. This allows for maintenance of the natural roots and structures around the tooth. 

How is a root canal performed?

Any and all questions are answered and reviewed before the procedure continues. Topical is then placed in the area before the area is numbed using local anesthetic. Once the anesthetic sets in a rubber covering called a rubber dam is placed over the tooth to help isolate the area. All of the decayed tooth structure (cavity) is removed and a small hole is made to access the pulp chamber. All of the canals are positively located and negotiated with small files. The area is then enlarged and disinfected. Several x-rays are made throughout the procedure to verify that the therapy is proceeding as planned. The inner area of the tooth is disinfected. The tooth canal and chamber are then sealed and filled with gutta percha. 

What can I expect after the root canal is completed?

It is very important that the top of the tooth is restored as soon as possible. The tooth is either restored with a filling, post and core, or crown. The restoration is determined based on remaining tooth structure and area of the mouth that the tooth is located. 

The tooth may be slightly sore after the root canal therapy. It is important to take it easy eating and chewing on the tooth immediately after treatment. Discomfort can often be controlled and managed with over the counter medications like Tylenol and Ibuprofen. Patients are able to drive themselves to the appointment and do not require a driver unless oral sedation is administered. 

Do root canals work?

Root canal treatment has a success rate of approximately 90% at five years. Teeth with a lower predicted success may be recommended for removal and replacement with either an implant, bridge, partial, or no replacement. 

Do root canals hurt?

Most pain associated with root canal treatment is managed with local anesthesia. It is also helpful to take Tylenol and Ibuprofen prior to the appointment. In some cases, an antibiotic may be prescribed before or after the treatment to help manage the infection. Treatment SHOULD NOT HURT! If you feel any discomfort during the procedure we as that you let Dr. Funke or his assistant know right away.

Does dental insurance pay for root canals?

Most dental insurance benefit plans help to some degree with root canal treatment. It is very rare that all of the treatment costs are covered by an insurance plan. 

Dr. Funke offers root canal therapy in Rochester MN.