by Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen | Feb 18, 2019 | Blog, Endodontist, Root Canal
For many years, root canals were portrayed in popular culture as uncomfortable, complicated dental treatments. Advancements in technology and technique have enabled endodontic specialists to streamline the root canal process and reduce discomfort during and after the procedure.
How Long Will My Root Canal Take?
Most root canals can be completed in one or two appointments with the endodontist. The steps involved in performing the root canal include:
- The endodontist examines your tooth and makes a radiograph of it using X-rays.
- The area around the tooth to be treated receives a local anesthetic.
- A rubber dental dam is placed around the tooth to keep it clean and saliva-free.
- The endodontist accesses the roots of your tooth by making an opening in the crown.
- The tooth root canals are cleaned using special instruments.
- After the cleaning, the pulp in the canals is replaced with a biocompatible material.
- A temporary filling is placed on top of the canals near the top of the tooth.
There are several important things to note about the general timeline for your root canal.
- You will need to visit your general dentist for an additional appointment to have a permanent crown placed over the root canal.
- The endodontist may need additional time if they need to place a post in the tooth to shore up its structure during the root canal.
- The root canal may need to be retreated later if there is an undetected crack in the tooth, or if a canal is missed during the initial cleaning procedure.
“Root canals are cost-effective treatments for injured or infected teeth, and the time commitment needed to have one is minimal,” says Dr. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “If you have questions about how long your root canal might take, please contact our office.”
by Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen | Jan 23, 2019 | Blog, Dental Implants, Endodontist
When an injured or infected tooth cannot be saved, it’s natural to want to rush toward the next treatment step. If your choice to treat your failing tooth is a dental implant, your first question may be how long you have to wait after the extraction to get your dental implant. Just as every person’s mouth is unique, the timeline for their dental implant will be individualized. Several factors determine the length of time between extraction and implantation.
What Can Impact Your Dental Implant Timeline?
- Number of teeth extracted. If one or two teeth are being extracted, it may be possible to proceed to an implant more quickly than if an entire arch of teeth are being removed.
- The health of your gums. If you have periodontal disease in addition to your compromised natural tooth, your dentist will want to improve the health of your gums before your implant.
- Whether you will need a bone graft to strengthen your jaw. If you have experienced bone loss in your jaw, you will likely need a bone graft to ensure the implant will be successful.
- The method of implantation your dentist has chosen. Extraction and implantation can be done the same day, but this requires a great deal of pre-planning and coordination between your dental professionals, as well specific criteria for your oral health. If a bone graft is needed, the implantation may need to allow for a healing period.
- How quickly the implant bonds to your jaw bone. Once your jaw is strong enough to accept a dental implant, the implant post will be placed. The process of osseointegration (the bone integrating with the implant) is what secures the implant and allows your new tooth to have a solid foundation.
“Dental implants have a high success rate, but only if the treatment is delivered in a way that meets the individual’s oral health needs,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “If you have questions about how your procedure will unfold, ask your provider for a comprehensive explanation.”
by Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen | Nov 28, 2018 | Blog, Dental Implants, Dentistry, Endodontist, Phoenix Endodontic Group
Dental patients with teeth that are seriously compromised by illness, injury, or decay are usually aware that extraction by itself is rarely the best option. If you are experiencing serious tooth trouble, you may be wondering whether a root canal or a dental implant would be the better solution.
At Phoenix Endodontic Group, our practice is dedicated to saving natural teeth through root canal treatments and related procedures. However, there are times when a tooth simply cannot be saved through endodontic treatment. When that is the case, our practice may recommend a dental implant for the patient.
Who Is A Good Candidate For A Dental Implant?
- A patient who has a lower level of dental anxiety or phobia. Tooth extraction and implant surgery are more complex procedures than root canal treatment. If anxiety issues do exist, they should be discussed during preparation for the implant. We can develop a care plan for patients experiencing dental anxiety.
- A patient with strong periodontal (gum) health. By the time the “root canal or dental implant” crossroads has been reached, many patients already are struggling with advanced gum disease, but the healthier the gums are, the greater the likelihood the procedure will go smoothly.
- A patient who has not experienced significant bone loss in the jaw. Bone grafts can be done to strengthen a jaw before it receives an implant, but this may result in an additional procedure.
- A patient who can commit to a lengthy implantation/recovery process. Traditional dental implants require several months to complete. The portion of the implant inserted into the jaw must be allowed to integrate with the bone before placement of an artificial tooth is possible.
“Dental implants and root canals both have high levels of success and patient satisfaction,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, an endodontist who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “Your dental team can determine which treatment route is better for your individual circumstances.”
by Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen | Oct 22, 2018 | Blog, Endodontics, Endodontist, Phoenix Endodontic Group, Root Canal
Your experience after a root canal may be as unique as the circumstances that led to your need for the procedure. After your root canal, your endodontist will likely send you home with instructions for how to care for your teeth until a permanent crown can be placed. These instructions might cover pain management, brushing and flossing, and tips for retaining your temporary crown.
One of the post-procedural questions that may be at the top of your mind is when you can go back to work. The simple answer is usually, “the day after your procedure.” However, several factors can influence this time estimate.
3 Post-Root Canal Questions To Answer Before You Return To Work
- How much post-procedure pain are you experiencing? You may experience discomfort after the root canal, but often it can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers. Serious pain can indicate that you may need to follow up with your endodontist.
- Is your temporary crown still in place? You will need to have the crown replaced if it falls out.
- Does your work situation allow you to control what you eat? You’ll want to eat soft, cool, bland foods and chew on the side of the mouth opposite the root canal.
“Most adults can go back to work within a day of their root canal,” says Dr. Allen an endodontist who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group, “However, it’s crucial not to rush that return so much that you miss a symptom your endodontist needs to know about.”
by Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen | Sep 25, 2018 | Blog, Endodontics, Endodontist, Phoenix Endodontic Group, Root Canal
Modern root canals are very effective treatments for natural teeth endangered by injury, decay or disease. The procedure has a success rate well above 90 percent. In those first few days after a root canal, though, your attention may be drawn to more immediate concerns, including what to eat as your mouth heals.
How you eat and what you eat are two key pieces of your root canal aftercare. Following the guidelines below can help ensure your recovery goes smoothly.
Foods To Avoid After Your Root Canal
- Raw vegetables. Normally health enhancing, crunchy snacks such as carrots and celery should be temporarily taken off your menu.
- Nuts. Again, this category of food is usually on the health friendly list, but they are simply too hard for your newly treated tooth to handle.
- Hard candy. Even if your intention is to suck on these sweet treats instead of chew them, there is always the risk that the candy could shatter or put too much pressure on the treated area.
- Chewing gum. The main danger of using chewing gum after a root canal is that it could pull out your temporary filling, which is essential to preventing infection until a permanent crown can be placed.
- Excessively hot foods or drinks. Items such as hot coffee, soup or tea may cause painful sensitivity during the healing period.
Foods that are generally safe to eat after a root canal include ice cream, soft fruits such as bananas and mangoes, yogurt, milkshakes, oatmeal and soft cereals free of any nuts. It is also very important to chew on the side of the mouth opposite your tooth receiving root canal treatment, and to eat slowly.
“The healing period for a root canal is not especially lengthy, but it is important to eat with care during that time to avoid damaging the work your endodontist has done,” says Dr. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group.
by fisherwebdesign | Aug 29, 2018 | Blog, Endodontist, Mission of Mercy, Phoenix Endodontic Group
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Jacqueline Allen, Phoenix Endodontic Group has been awarded the 2018 Health Care Hero Award by the Phoenix Business Journal in the dental category. Dr. Allen was recognized for her contributions as a founding member of the Central Arizona Dental Society Foundation, which was established in 2011 and sponsors an annual program called the Arizona Dental Mission of Mercy (AZMOM). The program is a two-day free dental clinic open to anyone.
“After each event, I am in awe that in a two-day period the work we do has such an immediate positive impact on the lives of so many people,” Dr. Allen said. “It is extremely satisfying to know that we played a part in eliminating pain, infection and oral disease in close to 2,000 people at one event. Additionally, CADSF is now being asked to help set up smaller events in other parts of the state — that has always been a part of our vision.” Read more about the recognition on Phoenix Business Journal.
Watch this compelling story to find out what motivates Dr. Allen to participate not only in the Arizona Mission of Mercy and with Central Arizona Dental Society Foundation, but also Mission of Mercy Dental events around the country. She is definitely our Health Care Hero and we are so proud of her to receive this well deserved recognition.
