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.”

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

Howell Family Dentist Suggests How to Avoid a Cavity Nightmare on Halloween!

Do your kids go trick-or-treating?

Do you set a limit on how much candy your kids are allowed to eat after trick-or-treating?

Does your child get a lot of cavities?

If you’re wondering how to avoid a cavity nightmare on Halloween, you’re not alone! Many parents are concerned about their child's candy eating habits getting out of hand at Halloween. Just because it's one night a year doesn't mean that your child isn't exposed to cavity risks.

To keep cavities away and protect your child’s smile this Halloween, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) recommends taking these simple steps:

1. Limit the number of times a day your child eats sugary treats or snacks between meals. Serve snacks that will not harm your child’s teeth, such as vegetables, cheese, nuts or seeds.
2. It is best to eat sugary treats at the end of mealtime while there is still plenty of saliva in the mouth. Saliva helps to wash away the sugars and acids.
3. Drinking a glass of water after eating a sugary treat will also help wash away some of the sugars and acids.
4. Avoid soft, sticky treats that get stuck between teeth.
5. Always have your child brush and floss before going to bed.

If you remain strict about following the previous steps with your child then eliminating the risk of developing tooth decay is easy. Halloween is a fun holiday for all! You don’t want a cavity to put a damper on your holiday season by allowing the fear of cavities to overwhelm you.  

Our ultimate goal is to help you improve your dental health through care and education. We’re also dedicated to maintaining a higher level of service for our patients so we can remain the best Howell family dentist. We will answer your questions and discuss your concerns and together develop an individualized plan for optimal dental health.  Call us to schedule an appointment for you and your family!