Summit Endodontics

1. Will root canal therapy hurt?

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At Summit Endodontics, your comfort is one of our highest priorities. As endodontic specialists, Dr. Hatfield understand the importance of achieving profound anesthesia before beginning treatment. We take the extra time and care necessary to ensure that our patients are comfortable and relaxed throughout their appointments.

We use a combination of local anesthetics and offer nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas," to help reduce anxiety and enhance patient comfort. Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective form of inhalation sedation when administered and monitored appropriately.  It helps patients feel calm and relaxed while remaining awake and responsive during treatment. 

Nitrous oxide is offered at no additional charge. We also provide music and headphones to help create a more relaxing treatment experience.

Our goal is to make your root canal experience as comfortable, stress-free, and pain-free as possible.

 

2.   What is root canal treatment?​

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Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a procedure designed to save a tooth when the pulp (the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth) becomes inflamed or infected. This may result from deep decay, trauma, a large restoration, or a crack in the tooth.

During treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed, and the root canals are carefully cleaned, disinfected, shaped, and sealed to help prevent future infection.

Root canal systems can be extremely complex, with narrow, curved, or difficult-to-locate canals. As endodontic specialists, we use advanced technology, including surgical operating microscopes and three-dimensional CBCT imaging, to help identify and treat this intricate anatomy.

Following root canal treatment, your general dentist will place a permanent restoration, such as a filling or crown, to protect the tooth and restore its function.

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3.   Why do I need an additional endodontic procedure​?

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Although root canal treatment is highly successful, occasionally a tooth may not heal as expected or may develop a new infection months or even years after the original treatment.

Several factors can contribute to persistent or recurrent problems, including:

• Narrow, curved, or previously untreated root canals

• Complex root canal anatomy that was difficult to identify or treat during the original procedure

• Cracks or fractures within the tooth or roots

• Delayed placement of a permanent restoration following root canal treatment

• Leakage around an existing filling or crown

• New decay that allows bacteria to reenter the tooth

• A loose, cracked, or broken filling or crown

In many cases, endodontic retreatment offers a second opportunity to save your natural tooth. Dr. Hatfield will carefully evaluate your tooth, determine the cause of the problem, and discuss the most appropriate treatment options to help preserve your natural dentition whenever possible.

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4.   What will happen during endodontic retreatment?​

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If a previously treated tooth develops a new infection or fails to heal properly, endodontic retreatment may be recommended.

During retreatment, the tooth is reopened to access the existing root canal filling material. In some cases, restorative materials such as posts, cores, or crowns may need to be removed to gain access to the root canals.

The existing filling material is removed, and the canals are carefully examined using a surgical operating microscope to identify any additional canals, complex anatomy, or potential sources of infection.

The canals are then cleaned, disinfected, and resealed. A temporary restoration is typically placed until your general dentist can complete the permanent restoration.

In certain situations, conventional retreatment may not be possible or may not provide the best chance of success. When appropriate, endodontic microsurgery (apicoectomy) may be recommended as an alternative approach to saving the tooth.

 

5.   What should I do before my root canal therapy appointment?

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Before your appointment, we recommend getting a good night's sleep and eating a normal meal unless you have been instructed otherwise.

Continue taking your regularly prescribed medications unless your prescribing physician has advised you differently.

If possible, avoid taking over-the-counter pain medication immediately before your appointment unless needed for comfort or directed by your healthcare provider. Please let us know which medications you have taken, as this information may be helpful during your evaluation.

If you have any questions about your medications or preparation for treatment, please contact our office before your appointment.

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6.   What should I do before my surgery appointment?

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Before your surgical appointment, please follow these recommendations:

• Continue taking your regularly prescribed medications unless your physician or our office has provided specific instructions otherwise.

• Inform us of all medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements.

• Do not discontinue aspirin, blood thinners, or other prescribed medications without consulting your prescribing physician.

• If you have been instructed to take antibiotics before dental procedures, please notify our office so we can confirm the appropriate premedication instructions.

• Contact our office before your appointment if you have any changes in your medical history or medications.

If you have any questions regarding your upcoming surgery, please call our office in advance so we can address your concerns.

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7.   Will my root canal treatment be successful?​

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Root canal treatment has a high success rate, and many properly treated teeth can last a lifetime.

The long-term prognosis depends on several factors, including the condition of the tooth before treatment, the complexity of the root canal anatomy, the amount of remaining healthy tooth structure, and the quality of the final restoration.

Prompt placement of a permanent filling or crown, when indicated, is essential to protecting the treated tooth and ensuring its long-term success.

With proper restoration and routine dental care, root canal-treated teeth have an excellent potential for long-term success and preservation.

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8. How long will the appointment be?

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Please allow approximately one hour for a consultation and 1½ hours for root canal treatment, retreatment, or endodontic microsurgery (apicoectomy).

Appointment times may vary depending on the complexity of the tooth and the treatment required. Some cases may require more than one visit.

We take the time necessary to provide thorough, precise treatment while prioritizing your comfort.

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9.   What should I do after my treatment?​

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Following your procedure, you will receive written postoperative instructions explaining what to expect and how to care for your tooth.

Mild tenderness or discomfort may occur for several days following treatment and can often be managed with recommended over-the-counter pain medications.

Please follow the instructions provided and contact our office if you experience significant discomfort, swelling, or any unexpected symptoms.

If you misplace your instructions, they are also available for viewing or downloading on our website.

For urgent concerns after office hours, please refer to the emergency contact information included in your postoperative instructions.

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10.   Do I need to return to my family dentist after endodontic treatment is completed?

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Yes. Following root canal treatment, it is important to return to your general dentist for a permanent restoration.

Although root canal treatment addresses the internal infection or inflammation, the tooth must also be properly restored to protect it from fracture and bacterial leakage.

Depending on the tooth and the amount of remaining tooth structure, your general dentist may recommend a permanent filling or crown.

We will provide your referring dentist with a detailed treatment report and appropriate radiographs to ensure continuity of care.

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11.   Will I need to return to your office for follow-ups after the procedure is finished?

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We recommend follow-up examinations to monitor healing and evaluate the long-term success of your endodontic treatment.

In many cases, a follow-up appointment is recommended approximately six months after treatment, although the timing may vary depending on your individual circumstances.

During this visit, we will evaluate the treated tooth and obtain radiographs when indicated to assess healing of the surrounding bone and tissues.

Follow-up examinations and indicated radiographs are included in your treatment fee.

Our commitment to your dental health continues beyond the completion of your root canal treatment.