Your Root Canal Dentist in Columbus
Tooth pain that doesn’t go away is never something to ignore. At Polaris Family Dental in Columbus, OH, Dr. Jaclyn Winner and her team understand how uncomfortable and distracting dental pain can be.
When a tooth becomes severely infected or damaged, root canal treatment can help relieve pain, preserve your natural tooth, and restore your oral health. This gentle, effective procedure is designed to treat the problem inside the tooth—where infection often begins—so you can return to smiling comfortably.
Understanding Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is a type of endodontic treatment performed to save an infected tooth or one that’s been damaged by deep decay, trauma, or cracks. Inside each tooth is a soft area called the pulp chamber, which houses blood vessels, nerve tissue, and connective tissue. When this area becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause significant tooth pain and sensitivity.
During root canal therapy, Dr. Winner removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth, carefully cleans and disinfects the root of your tooth, and then fills the space with a special material to strengthen it. A temporary filling or crown is often placed until a permanent restoration can be made.
This dental procedure allows patients to keep their natural tooth instead of losing it to infection. Thanks to modern technology, local anesthesia, and advanced techniques, today’s root canal treatment feels similar to getting a regular dental filling.
Why You Might Need a Root Canal
Root canals are often recommended when the dental pulp inside the tooth becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, repeated dental work, or injury. Without treatment, the infection can spread to the surrounding soft tissue, causing an abscess and, in some cases, leading to tooth loss.
Most common signs that you may need a root canal include:
- Persistent or severe tooth pain, especially when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling or tenderness near the gum line
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- A small bump on the gums near the affected tooth
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule an exam with Dr. Winner to determine the best course of action for your situation.
What Happens During the Root Canal Procedure?
The root canal procedure typically involves several essential steps. Before beginning, Dr. Winner applies a local anesthetic to numb the affected area, ensuring your comfort throughout the treatment. Once the tooth is numb, a small opening is made in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
Using precision tools and modern root canal procedures, the infected pulp and nerve tissue are carefully removed. The canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to eliminate bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
Next, the tooth is filled with a biocompatible material that seals the space and provides internal stability. A temporary filling is used to protect the tooth until a permanent crown is placed, restoring complete function and strength.
The entire process may take one or two visits, depending on the complexity of your case. Each step of this endodontic therapy is done with care to protect the integrity of your tooth and promote long-term success.
Pain Management and Comfort During Treatment
One of the most common concerns patients express is whether a root canal treatment is painful. Thanks to modern technology and effective local anesthesia, most patients describe the experience as comparable to receiving a filling.
Dr. Winner and the compassionate team at Polaris Family Dental in Columbus take every step to ensure your comfort, whether it’s your first time undergoing a root canal or you’ve had one before. If you experience dental anxiety, additional comfort measures and relaxation options can be discussed before your appointment.
After treatment, some mild tenderness is normal as the tooth and surrounding tissue heal. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or medication recommended by our dental professionals.
Recovery and Aftercare Following Treatment
The healing process following a root canal is typically straightforward. You’ll be able to go home the same day, but it’s best to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your final crown is placed. During recovery, you might experience mild sensitivity, which should subside within a few days.
Dr. Winner may recommend:
- Eating soft foods until the tooth feels comfortable
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods that could disturb the temporary filling
- Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing gently
- Rinsing with 8 ounces of warm water and salt to keep the soft tissue clean
- Applying an ice pack to reduce swelling if needed
The key to long-term success is proper care and maintenance. Once the tooth is fully restored, you can treat it just like your other natural teeth. Routine checkups and cleanings help ensure the tooth remains strong and free from new decay.
How Root Canals Impact Your Oral Health
Choosing to save your natural tooth through root canal therapy helps maintain the stability and function of your entire dental arch. When a tooth is extracted instead, the surrounding bone may begin to deteriorate, and adjacent teeth can shift out of place. This can affect your bite, appearance, and even your speech.
By keeping your natural tooth intact, root canal treatment supports long-term oral health and prevents more complex issues later. The American Dental Association recognizes root canals as one of the most successful procedures in general dentistry, with a high success rate when patients maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
In some cases, dental implants or bridges may be recommended if a tooth cannot be saved or restored. However, preserving your natural tooth through endodontic treatment is typically the best course of action whenever possible.
Alternatives to Root Canal Therapy
While a root canal is often the most effective way to save an infected tooth, there are situations where other options may be considered. If the tooth structure is too compromised or the infection is too severe, tooth extraction followed by a dental implant or a fixed partial denture may be necessary.
A dental implant replaces a lost tooth by placing a metal post in the jawbone, topped with a crown that mimics a natural tooth. This approach can help prevent bone loss and maintain the appearance and function of your smile. However, root canal therapy remains the preferred option when the integrity of your tooth can be preserved, as it allows you to keep your original tooth with less recovery time and fewer steps.
Modern Technology for Better Outcomes
At Polaris Family Dental in Columbus, OH, we use modern technology to ensure precision, comfort, and efficiency during every root canal procedure. Advanced imaging allows Dr. Winner to examine the inside of the tooth in detail, plan the most accurate dental treatment, and guide each step of your endodontic procedure.
This technology helps create a smooth experience and predictable results while protecting vital structures and minimizing discomfort. It also enhances the treatment success rate by ensuring that all infected tissue is thoroughly removed and sealed.
Whether you’re dealing with persistent tooth pain or a sudden tooth abscess, you can trust that our team will take the time to understand your specific needs and recommend the best course of action for restoring your oral health.
Preserving Your Smile with Gentle Care
Every root canal treatment performed at Polaris Family Dental is guided by compassion and precision. Dr. Jaclyn Winner believes that maintaining your natural tooth is one of the best ways to protect your smile and oral health. Her approach combines advanced clinical skill with a caring touch to help patients feel confident and at ease throughout their visit.
Our Columbus dental team understands that needing a root canal can feel intimidating, especially if it’s your first time. That’s why we focus on education, comfort, and personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific situation and comfort level. From the first step of diagnosis to the final restoration, you’ll be supported every step of the way.
The Long-Term Success of Root Canal Therapy
With proper care, most root canal treatments last as long as your natural teeth. Maintaining good oral hygiene, visiting us for regular checkups, and addressing any concerns early are the best ways to keep your smile healthy for years to come.
Root canals not only relieve tooth pain but also restore confidence and function. Once the final crown is placed, the tooth looks and feels completely natural—allowing you to chew, speak, and smile comfortably again.
Experience Compassionate Dental Care in Columbus, OH
If you’re struggling with ongoing dental pain or think you may need a root canal, you’ve come to the right place. At Polaris Family Dental in Columbus, OH, Dr. Winner and her caring team are committed to helping patients achieve lasting comfort and optimal oral health through gentle, effective treatments.
We’ll take time to explain your options, answer your questions, and ensure your experience is as stress-free as possible. Whether you’re facing a deep infection or simply seeking guidance on your next steps, our team is here to help you make informed decisions about your dental care.
Don’t wait to find relief from tooth pain—call us at 614-714-6138 to schedule an appointment!
