When Are Root Canals Needed and How Do They Help?
Root canal therapy is often misunderstood, yet it is one of the most effective ways to relieve dental pain and preserve a natural tooth. At Stefan Family Dental in Westerville, OH, root canals are recommended when decay or infection reaches the inner portion of a tooth, known as the pulp. Left untreated, this infection can cause swelling, severe discomfort, or abscesses. Root canals are designed to clean out the infection, restore comfort, and save your natural tooth from extraction.
Stefan Family Dental has provided quality care to the Westerville community for more than 40 years. With advanced technology, including CBCT imaging and rotary endodontic tools, our team ensures root canal therapy is precise, efficient, and focused on long-term results.
This Article will address
- What a root canal is and why it may be needed
- Signs that indicate you may require root canal therapy
- How root canals save natural teeth
- What happens if a root canal goes untreated
- Whether abscessed teeth must be pulled
- What to expect during treatment at Stefan Family Dental
- Recovery and aftercare
- Why patients in Westerville choose Stefan Family Dental for root canal therapy
What Is a Root Canal and Why Might You Need One?
A root canal is a general dental treatment designed to remove infection from the inner chamber of a tooth and protect it from future damage. When deep decay, cracks, dental trauma, or an abscess allows bacteria to reach the pulp, a root canal is often the only way to stop the infection while preserving the natural tooth structure.
It is important to know that root canal therapy does not cause pain. It is the infection that does. The treatment relieves pain by removing the source of the problem and sealing the tooth to restore health.
Signs That You May Need a Root Canal
If you notice any of the following, it may be time to consult with our team:
- Persistent or severe toothache
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
- Swelling in the gums or jaw near the affected tooth
- Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
- Pus, drainage, or the presence of an abscess
Recognizing these symptoms early allows for timely treatment and can prevent the infection from spreading further.
How Do Root Canals Help Save Teeth?
Patients often ask, “Can a root canal save teeth?” The answer is yes. By removing the infected pulp and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, a root canal allows us to preserve the natural outer structure. After the procedure, most teeth are restored with a dental crown for added strength and long-term function.
At Stefan Family Dental, preserving natural teeth has been a priority for decades. Saving your tooth means you can maintain natural chewing ability, protect surrounding teeth, and avoid more extensive dental work.
What Happens If a Root Canal Goes Untreated?
Another common concern is, “How long can a tooth that needs a root canal go untreated?” Unfortunately, untreated infections only get worse. A tooth that requires a root canal can quickly develop an abscess, which may lead to:
- Worsening pain and swelling
- Spread of infection to other teeth or even the jawbone
- Tooth loss requiring extraction and replacement
- Complications that affect overall health
Because of these risks, our office provides emergency dental care, ensuring patients can be seen quickly when urgent needs arise.
Will a Tooth Be Pulled if It’s Abscessed?
Patients sometimes ask, “Will they pull a tooth if it’s abscessed?” While tooth extraction is an option, it is not the first choice. At Stefan Family Dental, we make every effort to preserve natural teeth whenever possible. Root canal therapy is often the best way to treat an abscessed tooth, as it eliminates infection and restores function without the need for removal.
What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment at Stefan Family Dental
Our process is designed for comfort, accuracy, and predictable results. A typical root canal visit includes:
- Numbing the tooth to ensure a comfortable experience.
- Using digital imaging and CBCT scans for precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Creating a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
- Cleaning and shaping the canals with advanced rotary instruments.
- Disinfecting and sealing the canals to prevent reinfection.
- Restoring the tooth with a temporary or permanent filling, often followed by a crown.
Our team emphasizes communication at every step, so you know what to expect and feel confident in your care.
Recovery After a Root Canal
Following treatment, patients may experience mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days. This is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter medication. Stefan Family Dental provides detailed post-endodontic instructions to help you care for the treated tooth at home.
Most patients return to normal activities the same day and enjoy lasting relief from tooth pain once the tooth has healed. If unusual symptoms occur, our emergency contact process ensures you have support whenever needed.
Why Choose Stefan Family Dental for Root Canal Therapy in Westerville, OH?
For over 40 years, our practice has combined advanced dental technology with a patient-first approach. Patients choose Stefan Family Dental because:
- We are deeply rooted in the Westerville community and committed to long-term relationships.
- Our office features modern diagnostic tools such as digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and CBCT scans.
- We value transparency and communication, ensuring every patient understands their treatment plan.
- Dr. Zachary N. Stefan is a member of the American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, and Columbus Dental Society, reflecting our commitment to professional excellence.
Protect Your Smile with Root Canal Therapy in Westerville, OH
Root canals are a proven way to stop infection, relieve pain, and save natural teeth. At Stefan Family Dental, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to ensure every patient receives treatment that is both comfortable and effective.
Call Stefan Family Dental today or book online to schedule your root canal therapy in Westerville, OH.
Sources
Dr. Zachary N. Stefan, DMD
After earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Roseman University in Salt Lake City in 2019, Dr. Stefan returned to his home state of Ohio to bring exceptional, patient-centered care to his community. As the founder of Stefan Family Dental, he is committed to crafting comprehensive treatment plans that align with each patient’s oral health goals. Known for his meticulous approach and strong emphasis on communication, Dr. Stefan works to ensure his patients feel informed and empowered throughout their dental journey. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and Ohio Dental Association, dedicated to lifelong learning and professional excellence.