Root Canals in Lansdale, PA

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a restorative dental procedure that removes the infected or damaged pulp from inside your tooth. This soft tissue, found in the center of the tooth, contains nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria reach this area—often due to decay, cracks, or trauma—it can lead to severe pain and swelling.

During the procedure, we:

1. Gently clean out the affected pulp
2. Disinfect the root canals
3. Fill and seal the space to prevent reinfection
4. Restore the tooth with a dental crown for strength and function

The result? A pain-free, fully functional tooth that no longer causes discomfort.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

You may require root canal therapy if you’re experiencing one or more of the following symptoms:

• Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
• Swelling in the gums around the affected tooth
• Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
• A small pimple or bump on the gums (abscess)
• Pain when chewing or biting down

Sometimes, a tooth may show no symptoms but still require treatment—especially if infection is found on an X-ray.

What Causes Pulp Damage or Infection?

Several common dental issues can lead to infection in the pulp of the tooth:

• Deep tooth decay
• Cracked or fractured teeth
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
• Trauma from an accident or injury
• Severe gum disease allowing bacteria to reach the tooth’s root

The sooner the issue is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of saving the tooth and avoiding further complications.

What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure

At Lansdale Dental Care, we focus on patient comfort from start to finish. Here’s what a typical root canal process looks like:

1. Examination & Imaging

We start with an in-depth evaluation and digital X-rays to assess the extent of the damage.

2. Local Anesthesia

The area around the tooth is numbed to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.

3. Cleaning & Disinfection

Dr. Chillemi accesses the pulp chamber, removes the infected tissue, and carefully cleans and shapes the root canals.

4. Sealing & Restoration

The canals are filled with a biocompatible material, then sealed. In most cases, a crown is placed afterward to protect and strengthen the tooth.

Many patients compare the experience to getting a routine filling—and are surprised by how simple and painless the process is.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Choosing a root canal offers several key advantages:

• Preserves your natural tooth
• Eliminates infection and prevents spread
• Stops pain and sensitivity
• Restores full chewing function
• Prevents shifting of neighboring teeth
• Avoids more invasive procedures like extraction

With proper care, a tooth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery is typically quick and uneventful. You may experience some mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. To ensure optimal healing:

• Avoid chewing on the treated side until the crown is placed
• Maintain good brushing and flossing habits
• Attend any follow-up appointments as scheduled
• Contact us if pain, swelling, or pressure persists

A permanent dental crown will be placed once the tooth is fully healed, ensuring long-term protection.