EndodonticsQuestions

How effective are antibiotics for dental abscess without extraction?

Antibiotics alone cannot cure a dental abscess as they don't eliminate the source of infection. While they can temporarily reduce infection and symptoms, definitive treatment like root canal therapy or extraction is necessary to completely resolve the abscess.

My dentist says that I need a root canal. Under my temporary crown, I don't feel any pain. Is this normal?

It is entirely normal to need a root canal without experiencing pain under a temporary crown. Pulpal disease can be asymptomatic, especially when the pulp is necrotic (dead). Dentists diagnose based on clinical tests, radiographic findings, and examination, not just symptoms. Preventive root canal treatment before final crown placement often results in better long-term outcomes and avoids emergency situations.

I had a root canal question. I had a root canal 8 months ago but still have occasional pain. Should I be concerned?

Occasional pain 8 months after a root canal is not normal and warrants evaluation. It could indicate incomplete healing, missed canals, root fracture, or non-endodontic issues. A comprehensive examination with new radiographs is needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment, which may include observation, retreatment, apicoectomy, or extraction depending on the diagnosis.

[Second Opinion] I had these root canals done August 23 and Sept 6th. Crowns were done Oct 5th. Does the work look adequate?

Without seeing your radiographs, I cannot provide a specific assessment of your root canal treatment. Quality indicators include proper canal shaping, complete obturation to appropriate length, absence of voids, and no procedural errors. For a proper second opinion, I recommend in-person evaluation by another endodontist with current radiographs, clinical examination, and assessment of any symptoms. Timing of crown placement (4-6 weeks after root canal) was appropriate in your case.

Are root canals really as painful as people say? What advancements have made the procedure more comfortable?

Modern root canal treatment is significantly more comfortable than its reputation suggests. Contemporary advancements including improved anesthetics, digital imaging, rotary instrumentation, better irrigants, and enhanced techniques have made root canals comparable to routine fillings in terms of discomfort. Most patients report feeling little to no pain during the procedure. What people often attribute to root canal pain is actually the severe toothache from the infection that precedes treatment. With proper anesthesia and a skilled endodontist, root canal therapy typically provides immediate relief from pre-existing pain rather than causing it.