Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Howell Family Dentist Debates Root Canal Verses Home Remedies



Do you believe in the power of medicine or herbal remedies?


Most people would rather save money on a root canal and keep it in the bank whenever possible. But how can you do that after your dentist says you need one in order to relieve your pain? Some people try herbal remedies! 
family dentist in Howell, Michigan



Some herbal remedies we found include: 


Plantain poultice- is a type of weed that pulls toxins out of the body

Goldenseal powder- is a type of herb that can be used as a mouthwash to take away soreness

Echinacea- is a type of herb that helps fight off tooth infections

Silicea- is effective in reducing root infections of the tooth

Lycopodium- is helpful to reduce pain while you’re chewing


There is no scientific information that confirms using herbal remedies help heal a tooth that requires a root canal. So we can’t recommend this type of treatment!. However, if you try an herbal remedy and you’re still in pain, a root canal is probably still needed.


However, our family dentist in Howell, Michigan would like to offer you ways you can avoid a root canal. That way you don’t have to worry about how much it will cost, or whether you should try an herbal remedy. Ways to avoid a root canal include: 


  • Brush properly in a circular motion
  • Floss twice daily
  • Avoid eating sweets
  • Limit your consumption of acidic drinks (pop, energy drinks, coffee)
  • Use a mouthwash after brushing 



The family dentists in Howell at Dr. DiStefano & Associates are dedicated to providing you with excellent, personalized care and services to make your visits as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Our ultimate goal is to help you improve you and your family’s dental health through care and education. We’re also dedicated to maintaining a higher level of service to our patients so we can remain the best family dentists in Howell Michigan.


Call Doctor Gary DiStefano, D.D.S., your favorite family dentist in Howell, Michigan today to schedule your 6-month appointment!  We’ll get you on your way to better health! 517-546-8983

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

What is a Root Canal?



Have you been told that you need a root canal?

Do you know what a root canal is?

Most commonly, people refer to a root canal as an expensive filling, but it’s so much more than that! 

According to the American Association of Endodontists, “during root canal treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth.”
family dentists in Howell, Michigan


Root canals help save the natural tooth and allow you to maintain your beautiful smile without the pain. In addition, they provide many other benefits such as:



  • Allows effective chewing
  • Tolerates normal biting strength and sensation
  • Gives a natural appearance
  • Defends other teeth from excessive wear and strain


The family dentists in Howell at Dr. DiStefano & Associates are dedicated to providing you with excellent, personalized care and services to make your visits as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Our ultimate goal is to help improve your family’s dental health through care and education. We’re also dedicated to maintaining a higher level of service to our patients so we can remain the best family dentists in Howell Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions


How do I know a root canal is necessary?

If you’re in pain, the chances are high that you have a tooth that is inflamed or infected. The best way to know for sure if your tooth requires a root canal is to ask your dentist to do a careful examination. 

What are common symptoms of needing a root canal treatment?

Common symptoms include: a tooth sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, painful to chew, tooth discoloration, swelling, and sore lymph nodes are all signs that you may need a root canal treatment.

Are root canal treatments painful?

A root canal treatment is not painful. Root canal treatments are performed to relieve pain caused by inflammation of the pulp chamber (where the nerve is located) or a dental infection.

Call Doctor Gary DiStefano, D.D.S., your favorite family dentist in Howell, Michigan today to schedule your 6-month appointment!  We’ll get you on your way to better health! 517-546-8983