Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Charles G. Wolfe on Root Canal
Dr. Charles G. Wolfe is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions bizymoms visitors have about Root Canal.
Q. What is root canal treatment?
A. Root canal treatment is a very simple procedure which simply removes the nerve fibers from inside the tooth. In many cases it can be completed in one simple procedure using just a local anesthetic (novocaine). Once a root canal is completed the tooth should be crowned (capped) to strengthen the tooth.
Q. What does treatment involve?
A. It usually involves one or two appointments using a local anesthetic.
The dentist will numb the tooth and after making a small opening in the biting surface (similar to having a cavity prepared) and then he/ she will use a series of small instruments to clean the dead nerve out of the canals of the root.
Q. What are the signs of needing endodontic treatment?
A. Signs and symptoms may include but not limited to pain that lasts more than a few minutes, hot or cold sensitivity, swelling, puss, or pain on biting. Most patients will feel much better once the root canal has been completed.
Q. Are pain pills and antibiotics an acceptable substitute for root canal?
A. NO. Once a tooth is infected or has constant pain associated with it the only solution to save the tooth is a root canal.
Q. Are there alternative treatments for root canal?
A. The only alternative would be an extraction. Many people feel, "it is only one tooth" and request having a tooth pulled, but are not aware that removing one tooth may throw off the entire bite and equilibrium within the mouth. The neighboring teeth as well as the opposing teeth will gradually drift into the missing tooth space causing subsequent loss of other teeth or possible misalignment of the jaw.
Q. How much will the procedure cost?
A. It ranges anywhere from $800-1200 depending on the complexity of the tooth and severity of the infection. The earlier the treatment is started the better the end result.
Q. Will the tooth need any special care or additional treatment?
A. It is very important for any tooth that has a root canal to follow-up with a crown (Cap) to cover and protect the root canal tooth to prevent any breakdown of the tooth.
Q. How to contact Dr. Wolfe if we have further questions?
A. Call 610691-6522 or simple visit our website at
www.neverendingsmile.com
