Root Canal Therapy

All About Root Canal Therapy

Your teeth contain several layers:

  • the outer protective enamel
  • a secondary layer of sensitive dentin
  • an inner pulp that contains the “nerve” of the tooth

Each pulp chamber branches off, forming canals that lead toward the tooth root tip. These infamous root canals provide a means for the tooth to absorb what it needs from the blood and get rid of toxins or other unnecessary materials via the blood stream.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

Stressors on your teeth can make the canal susceptible to bacterial infection, which can kill the pulp, stimulate increased blood flow, and create pressure within the tooth such as:

  • A deep cavity
  • Traumatic injury
  • Tooth fracture

This can cause severe tooth pain and may initiate bone degeneration, tooth loss, and even more acute pain.

In the earliest stages of this condition, our doctors will be able to save your tooth using a root canal. Otherwise, it should be extracted and replaced with a prosthetic.

Our Charlotte NC Root Canal Specialist: Meet Dr. Anna

Dr. Anna Kirakozova DDS, MS is a specialist in Endodontics, which means she completed advanced training in root canal therapy and associated procedures.

Learn more about Dr. Anna and her root canal specialty training here.

Will Root Canal Therapy Hurt?

NO! With today’s advanced analgesics and technology, the entire process can be so comfortable that many patients doze off.

Oftentimes, root canal therapy can be completed in a single appointment.

We simply clean out the diseased canal, fill it with a biologically inert substance, seal it from further infection, and you’re on your way. While some patients experience post-procedural soreness or slight tissue inflammation, these are controllable with over-the-counter analgesics. Follow-up care involves thorough home hygiene and regular dental visits for cleanings and check-ups.