
Feb
To many people, a “root canal” can be a terrifying phrase. A root canal may have been a scary procedure in the distant past. However, dental technology has advanced to the point where root canal therapy is as painless as a dental filling. At Pearl Dental Care, Drs. Gary and Scott Pearl make your comfort and saving your tooth their top priority.Â
Root canal therapy can save an infected or damaged tooth. Dr. Pearl uses state-of-the-art techniques to ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible. To begin, the area around the affected tooth is numbed, so you don’t experience any pain during the procedure.
Once you’re numb, Dr. Pearl will remove the damaged or infected pulp. The entire canal will be cleaned and disinfected before being filled with a durable protective material. Once done, the tooth will be sealed and topped with a crown to protect it.
You may need a root canal if you have a persistent toothache or your tooth is sensitive when you touch it or bite down on it. Another sign is sensitivity to foods and beverages that are cold or hot. The pain may be dull, throbbing, or sharp.
An infection can occur when bacteria enter your tooth’s pulp chamber through a cavity, crack, or chip. If the infection isn’t treated promptly, the area around the tooth can become swollen or even result in an abscess. Addressing infections as soon as possible is important so you don’t risk losing your tooth.
If a tooth is very damaged, you may have to have it extracted. Fortunately, a root canal can often help you keep your natural tooth. If you can save a tooth, your smile will remain beautiful, and you can continue having proper bite alignment.
Root canals are designed to be as comfortable and non-traumatic as possible. With modern pain techniques, Dr. Pearl can ensure that the experience doesn’t cause you unnecessary stress or trauma. Many patients are surprised at the quick and easy root canal process. Laughing gas or sedation can be used if desired.
If you can save your natural tooth, you will save lots of money in the long run. A missing tooth must be replaced to preserve oral health and jawbone density. And tooth replacements such as dental implants or dentures can be costly. The good news is that most dental insurance plans cover much of the cost of a root canal.
If you’ve had a root canal, these tips can help you take care of your tooth afterward:
To learn more about the reasons for root canals in Hamden, CT, or root canal aftercare, contact Drs. Gary and Scott Pearl at Pearl Dental Care. Our first concern is making you comfortable and alleviating your pain. Then, our goal is to save your tooth. Call (203) 285-8245 today to schedule your appointment.
Gary R. Pearl, DMD, MAGD, graduated from the University of Connecticut with a BS in Pharmacy and the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He spent his general practice residency at Park City Hospital in Bridgeport, CT, and is a graduate of the Pankey Institute in Key Biscayne, FL. In 2005, he achieved the highest Academy of General Dentistry honor- Mastership (MAGD). Dr. Pearl is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA), and the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Pearl is an expert in many facets of dentistry is constantly advancing what dentistry can offer.
Scott A Pearl, DMD, FAGD, attended college at the University of Connecticut followed be earning a masters degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from Quinnipiac University. He graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency training at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, NY. In 2021, Dr. Pearl became a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a milestone reached by only six percent of dentists in the US. He is President of the New Haven Dental Association from 2024 to 2025 (Board Member since 2021), and a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, American Dental Association and CT State Dental Association. His clinical interests include CEREC digital dentistry and implants.. He believes that quality dental care can profoundly affect patients’ physical and mental well-being.
View LinkedIn ProfileAdam R Abel, DMD, MD, specializes in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He received his BS from Tufts University and his DMD from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He then underwent specialty training in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center. He earned an MD degree at Weill Cornell Medicine and completed extensive training in anesthesiology and general surgery. Dr. Abel also works in NYC and has a teaching position at Weill Cornell, where he also performs advanced jaw surgeries, including orthognathic surgery. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.