FAQs

At Elite Endodontics KC, we specialize exclusively in root canal therapy, conducting numerous procedures weekly—far exceeding the average performed by general dentists. Our dedicated focus on endodontics ensures efficient and precise treatments, resulting in an enhanced patient experience and accelerated healing processes.

While biannual cleanings with a general dentist may not be everyone’s favorite, they excel in treating common issues like cavities and gum disease. However, for immediate attention to tooth pain, it’s crucial to consult an endodontist. Contact us promptly if you experience:

Tooth pain

Tooth injury

Sensitivity to hot or cold

Swelling around a tooth, gums, or face

A cracked tooth

Signs of gum line infection

Changes in tooth color

Soft tissue changes and asymmetry

Though most patients are referred to our office by their general dentist, we are more than happy to schedule an appointment without a referral. Give us a call- we look forward to meeting you!

At Elite Endodontics KC, we prioritize our patients’ long-term health. For efficient diagnosis and treatment, we utilize digital radiography—a non-film computerized system that reduces radiation levels by up to 90 percent compared to traditional methods.

A root canal is similar to having a filling, but instead of placing a filling on the chewing surface of your tooth where you can see it, we place a filling on the inside of the tooth. This allows us to eliminate inflamed or infected tissue to restore your tooth to good health.

Following your root canal therapy, we’ll send your treatment record to your restorative dentist. Contact their office within a few weeks for follow-up restoration. In rare cases of complications, reach out to us immediately.

The only alternative to treating a tooth with diseased dental pulp is extraction. Root canal treatment and a new crown are usually more cost-effective than opting for an implant, partial denture, or bridge. Preserving a tooth is preferable to extraction whenever possible.

Root canal treatment, once notorious for its pain in the past, has evolved with modern techniques and anesthetics. Today, the experience is comparable to a routine filling appointment, with minimal discomfort. Dr. Safder will will ensure that you are adequately numb throughout the procedure so that this is an enjoyable experience for you.

Around 95% of root canal procedures result in minimal to no discomfort afterward. Some mild achiness in the tooth for a few days is normal during the healing process. The endodontist may recommend antibiotics or additional pain medication based on the cause of your tooth pain to enhance your post-procedure comfort.

In the absence of cracks, fractures, decay, or leakage around the filling or crown, a root canal can potentially last indefinitely. While some teeth may not be suitable for root canal treatment, most can be retained for many years with proper care.

Root canals can be retreated if the tooth becomes re-contaminated or if there are complications like accessory canals. Decay or fractures may also occur in teeth with crowns or root canals, emphasizing the ongoing need for oral hygiene and comprehensive dental care.

Root canal treatment typically requires one visit, though more complex cases may need additional appointments. Each visit is expected to last one hour. Due to the duration of appointments, we kindly ask patients with children to make arrangements for them to stay at home.

Following treatment, most posterior teeth (molars and premolars) will need a crown to restore strength. If you already have a crown, it can often be preserved and restored with a tooth-colored filling after treatment.

The majority of teeth with crowns do not require a root canal. Only in rare cases, when the tooth remains sensitive or becomes uncomfortable, might a root canal be needed following crown placement.

Yes! After root canal therapy, a temporary filling may be placed in your tooth’s crown. While the tooth draws nourishment from surrounding tissues, permanent restoration is essential and should be done by your general dentist. The type of restoration depends on the tooth’s location and condition. Schedule a prompt visit to your general dentist as the temporary filling may loosen over time.

Failure to remove diseased or damaged tissue may lead to inflammation, infection, pain, swelling, and potential loss of the tooth. Untreated, the tooth may ultimately require removal.

Preserving natural teeth is the optimal choice. Experts concur that artificial substitutes, despite advancements, cannot fully replicate the function or appearance of natural teeth. Moreover, extraction and replacement typically entail higher costs.

Root canal therapy, often done in one or two visits, involves:

• Administration of local anesthetic
• A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth, through which small instruments can remove the diseased pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals.
• The root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
• The opening is closed with a temporary filling, to be replaced by your general dentist with a permanent restoration.

Following endodontic treatment, the root canal is permanently sealed, but the outer surface has a temporary restoration. Contact your restorative dentist for a follow-up restoration to protect against fracture and decay. To prevent fracturing, avoid chewing on that side until your restorative dentist places a core buildup and protective restoration, such as a crown. If necessary, a post and core buildup may be recommended based on your tooth’s strength. Your restorative dentist and endodontist will decide on the optimal restoration.

Common over-the-counter options like aspirin, Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen (Advil, Nuprin, Motrin), or Naproxen Sodium (Aleve) can effectively manage post-treatment discomfort. Taking one of these medications before the anesthetic wears off and continuing as directed on the label may reduce after-treatment discomfort.

Typically, antibiotics are not needed after endodontic therapy. A prescription will be provided only if deemed necessary. For women, antibiotics may impact oral birth control, potentially leading to pregnancy. It’s advised to use alternative birth control methods during this cycle. If uncertain, contact your physician.