Overview of Root Canal Therapy
If detected early on, tooth decay is addressed with a standard filling or something similar to remove the decay and close off the area. But when the decay spreads beyond the outer tooth and affects the inner portion (pulp) of the tooth, you will likely need a root canal.
Often called an endodontic treatment, root canal therapy at Western Mass Endo removes the damaged pulp from the tooth, sanitizes the internal portion, and then fills and seals the tooth. Our team of endodontic specialists may recommend a root canal to area individuals because it treats the infection and keeps the decay from moving to other teeth (creating a larger issue).
Infection that reaches the pulp of your tooth may be the result of a cavity or deep crack in the tooth or a physical injury. The most obvious signs that you could have an infection are tooth pain, jaw pain, swollen and discolored gums, and discoloration of the affected tooth. If the infection is not addressed, the infection can spread, causing increased pain. Set up an appointment at Western Mass Endo right away if you feel or notice any changes in your mouth.
The Root Canal Process
Our endodontic specialists want you to be completely comfortable during your appointment. Prior to your endodontic procedure, local anesthetic will be provided. The doctor will examine the innermost part of your tooth and extract the decayed pulp. Afterward, the inner chamber will be carefully cleaned to eliminate any remaining debris. When your procedure is completed, a temporary filling will be placed and you will return to your restorative dentist for a more permanent restoration.
Recovering From a Root Canal
Based on the method of sedation that was chosen, you might need to have an adult drive you home following your root canal. You should expect your mouth to feel tender or swollen, but these are normal symptoms and can be quelled with anti-inflammatory medications. We recommend that you set up a visit with your general dentist to have a dental restoration placed following your root canal treatment. You should also schedule a follow-up visit six months later with our endodontists to check the healing of your treated tooth. A member of our team will examine the area to make sure the infection has been eradicated and that there is no cause for concern.
Western Mass Endo Reviews
This entire office is phenomenal. All the staff that I engaged with from start to finish were pleasant and so helpful, and Dr. Shapiro was absolutely amazing, informative, and positive. As someone who works in healthcare and someone very afraid of the dentist, I deeply appreciated being informed every step of the way; and the delicacy and care that I was handled with- really hard to come by these days especially in dental care. I had a root canal, didn’t feel a single thing, barely felt the numbing needle. He just might be a magician thank you Dr. S & team!
This entire office is phenomenal. All the staff that I engaged with from start to finish were pleasant and so helpful, and Dr. Shapiro was absolutely amazing, informative, and positive. As someone who works in healthcare and someone very afraid of the dentist, I deeply appreciated being informed every step of the way; and the delicacy and care that I was handled with- really hard to come by these days especially in dental care. I had a root canal, didn’t feel a single thing, barely felt the numbing needle. He just might be a magician 🪄 thank you Dr. S & team!
From the phone call to get in, to the way out after my appointment top notch! I had some pain in my tooth, I'd already been told it was going to need a root canal in the future so when it started to hurt slightly I wasn't surprised. My Dr wrote me a referral and I called and scheduled a consult. Got me in within a few weeks. Consultation went good and they said to call if my tooth started to get worse. So this morning while drinking my morning tea I felt it. That lingering sensation a dull ache that didn't go away like it had been. I called at about 8:20 and waited on hold a bit, I expected it I knew they were busy. They were able to see me the same day since I called first thing! I went in was super nervous at first but once I was numb I started to immediately feel better. The assistant and Dr Scott worked so well together it was amazing. The whole procedure took about an hour. I could just tell Dr Scott took pride in his work and truly takes care of his patients. I can't thank this team enough.
Dr. Scott was incredibly professional, poised, efficient, friendly, informative, and helpful. I cannot believe that I had absolutely no pain with this root canal (okay ... except for the novocaine shots) ... Tylenol took care of the very minimal discomfort later in the day, but by the next day I was completely ache-free. The entire experience was well beyond what I expected ... I highly recommend Dr. Scott at WME. His assistant was beyond helpful, comforting, and informative. She absolutely made a difference to lessen my angst prior to the procedure. She was fabulous. Thank you to you both ... I am elated that I chose WME, and I am delighted that my experience included you both. Enjoy !
Dr. Shapiro: Thank you again for making my root canal experience a relatively pleasant one. I was particularly impressed with the painless way you made the four injections. Coming out of the dentist office feeling better than when I went in was all due to the way you handled my experience.
542
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating
Covering Treatment Cost
At your consultation, our staff will give you cost estimates to align your treatments with your health needs and your budget. If you currently carry dental insurance, we will call your provider to figure out your benefits. If you do not have dental insurance, Western Mass Endo takes several payment methods and may be able to assist you in finding medical financing options.