Root Canal Treatment in Winston-Salem

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal relieves pain by removing infected or inflamed tissue (the pulp) from inside a tooth, then cleaning, disinfecting and sealing it. Today’s root canals feel much like getting a filling, and most patients return to normal activities the next day.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, a throbbing toothache, pain when biting, swollen or tender gums, a pimple-like bump on the gums, or a tooth that has darkened.

What to Expect

  1. Diagnosis: Dr. Choi examines the tooth and takes digital X-rays to map the canals.
  2. Numbing: Local anesthetic keeps you comfortable throughout.
  3. Treatment: Dr. Choi removes the damaged pulp and shapes and disinfects each canal.
  4. Sealing: The canals are filled and sealed to prevent reinfection.
  5. Restoration: Your general dentist places a crown or filling to protect the tooth.

Root Canal vs. an Extraction

Keeping your natural tooth preserves your bite and jawbone and is usually less costly over time than an extraction followed by an implant or bridge.