Root Canal

Varinos Dental are your local Cosmetic, Implant, and General Dentists located in Newburyport, Peabody, & Winthrop, MA.

Root Canal Therapy at Varinos Dental Associates

Root Canal Treatments in Peabody, Newburyport, & Winthrop

Decades ago, if dental decay spread into the roots of your tooth, the only solution was an extraction. But with the invention of root canal treatments, it is possible to clean out the infection and save the tooth. Root canals have had a somewhat bad reputation among dental patients in terms of discomfort, but modern root canal treatments are much gentler than what they were like decades ago. Moreover, our offices provide sedation dentistry, so if you have concerns about dental anxiety, we can help take care of you. Continue reading to learn more about the procedure, or contact us to schedule an appointment at one of our three offices. 

Root Canal Q & A

Root Canal Treatment Guide

When Do You Need A Root Canal:

A root canal is recommended when dental decay infects the tooth pulp that is in the roots (under the gums). Left unchecked this decay and bacteria can cause infection, tooth loss, or spread to the surrounding gums and teeth. 

What Happens During A Root Canal:

During a root canal procedure you are number with local anesthetics. Sedation can also be provided for patients who are nervous or who have sensitive teeth. A small hole is made in the tooth that allows the dentist to access the root. The process is similar to a dental filling where the decayed and damaged part of the tooth is cleaned out and then filled. But instead of dental filling materials, a specific material is used to replace the pulp of the tooth. The tooth is then sealed (sometimes with a dental crown). 

How Do I Know If I Need A Root Canal?

First and foremost, the best way to find out what dental treatments you need is to see a dentist for a regular exam and checkup. Our teeth do a really poor job of letting us know when we have dental issues like cavities or infected roots. Usually by the time you experience symptoms you have actually probably had the problem for weeks or months. This is why daily oral care and preventative dental appointments are so helpful in preventing problems. 

Outside of finding out you need a root canal after getting dental X-rays, common symptoms can include toothaches, difficulty putting pressure on a tooth when chewing, and infection symptoms like fever or swelling around the mouth/jaw. 

Can I Be Sedated For A Root Canal?

Yes. Many patients have nerves about certain dental treatments. Sedation can help you relax if you need more invasive dental treatments. But not every office provides dental sedation. Our offices here at Varinos Dental Associates can help patients who struggle with dental anxiety by providing both a calm/comfortable environment and dental sedation. If anxiety or fear is keeping you away from the dentist, don’t risk your long-term oral health. Call one of our offices to discuss dental sedation. 

"Went in for a root canal and post crown. Doctor Varinos did a fine job. I complimented him on his steady hands while he was doing the procedure. The pain was minimal. Thank you for taking your time and caring."
Fran B.
Google Review

Do You Need Dental Crowns After a Root Canal

It is very common to need a dental crown after getting a root canal. Because the process involves making a hole at the top of your tooth to get to the root, it is common for a dentist to recommend a dental crown. That said, at a typical dental office, a crown will require a second dental visit potentially weeks later because the crown has to be custom-made at a local dental lab. Here at Varinos Dental Associates, that is not the case. We use CEREC to make dental crowns in office so that patients can get a root canal and a crown placed in a single day. 

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