A root canal is a relatively common dental procedure. It is used to restore the health of a tooth that is infected or at risk of infection due to damage or decay. In many cases root canal treatment can save a tooth, allowing it to stay in place for function and appearance.
Root canal treatment can be performed by most general dentists, as well as dental specialists called endodontists. Who should you go to for this procedure? Here are some reasons why you should choose an endodontist for your root canal treatment.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure named for the part of the tooth it treats. The root canal is a chamber inside your tooth that begins at the base of the crown and extends the length of the root. Inside of the root canal is soft tissue called dental pulp that is made up of blood vessels and nerves. The dental pulp is most important when the tooth is forming, but it is not needed to maintain the health of a mature tooth. If bacteria finds its way to the dental pulp, it can lead to an infection, requiring root canal treatment.
During treatment the dental pulp is removed and the root canal is thoroughly cleaned out and disinfected. The tooth is filled with a replacement material that supports the remaining structure and is resistant to infection. In most cases a crown is placed over the tooth following a root canal to provide protection against future infection.
What is an Endodontist?
An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the dental pulp. Endodontists complete additional education and training on top of their dental degrees to achieve this specialization within the field of dentistry.
Benefits of Choosing an Endodontist for Root Canal Treatment
There are many benefits of going to an endodontist for your root canal, such as:
- Expertise. An endodontist has specific expertise in root canal procedures, making them uniquely qualified to provide the necessary care to save your tooth.
- Experience. Endodontists perform many root canal procedures on a regular basis, meaning that the procedure is routine and highly likely to be successful.
- Technology. An endodontist’s office will be equipped with advanced technology that improves the comfort and success rate of root canal procedures.
- Improved outcomes. Going to an endodontist for root canal treatment may lead to improved outcomes for many patients with at-risk teeth.
- Complex cases. An endodontist is prepared to handle more complex cases that a general dentist may not.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Treatment
Does a root canal hurt?
Anesthesia is used for root canal treatment to make patients more comfortable. In many cases local anesthesia is sufficient, but some patients may prefer sedation to help them relax. Be sure to ask your endodontist about sedation if you are feeling nervous or anxious about your procedure.
Does it cost more to go to an endodontist?
The overall cost of a root canal performed by an endodontist may be higher because they are a specialist. However, if your tooth can be saved with lasting results, you may save money in the long run by avoiding future treatment or costly replacements. Find an endodontist who accepts or is in-network with your insurance to reduce the cost.
Why Choose Sterling Endodontics?
If you’re looking for an endodontist, the doctors at Sterling Endodontics have the skill and experience to provide lasting treatment. We offer root canal therapy and a wide range of endodontic procedures to restore your oral health. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment at one of our 3 convenient locations.
Endodontics is a specialization within the field of dentistry that focuses on the health of teeth from the inside. In many cases an endodontist can provide advanced procedures that may save a tooth that is severely damaged or decayed.
One of the most common procedures used to save teeth is a root canal. Root canal therapy can often restore the health of a tooth, allowing it to remain in place without the need for a replacement.
Learn more about endodontics through this comprehensive guide to root canal treatment.
Endodontics: An Overview
To understand endodontics, it is necessary to learn about the anatomy of a tooth. The hard outer layer of a tooth is called the enamel. Under the enamel there is a softer layer called dentin. The innermost chamber at the center of a tooth is called the root canal. It begins at the base of the crown and extends the length of the root. The root canal contains dental pulp, soft tissue made up of blood vessels and nerves. The dental pulp fosters the development of the tooth and sustains it as it grows.
Dental pulp is also highly susceptible to infection. If bacteria enters the root canal through a cavity or a crack in a tooth, it can infect the dental pulp and threaten the life of the tooth. This is where endodontics comes in. Through root canal therapy and other procedures, an endodontist can restore the health of the tooth.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal, or root canal therapy, is a procedure used to treat or prevent infection of the dental pulp. A small hole is made in the crown of the tooth to access the root canal. The dental pulp is removed from the tooth and the root canal is thoroughly cleaned out and disinfected. Then the tooth is filled with a replacement material that provides support and is resistant to infection. The final step is to place a crown over the tooth to protect the remaining tooth material from damage.
Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
You may need a root canal for any of the following reasons:
- Infected tooth. An infected tooth must be treated with a root canal to preserve the tooth. Otherwise it will need to be extracted.
- Deep cavity. A cavity that is deep enough to reach the dentin, the soft layer beneath the enamel, puts the tooth at risk of infection. Root canal therapy can prevent an infection, preventing pain and improving the chances of saving your tooth.
- Cracked tooth. A crack in a tooth or a fractured cusp can provide an avenue for bacteria to infect the tooth. Root canal therapy and a crown can usually save a cracked tooth.
- Discolored tooth. If a tooth develops a gray or brown color that stands out from your other teeth, there may be bleeding inside the tooth due to pulp damage. A root canal can treat the tooth and internal bleaching can whiten the tooth back to its natural color.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy
Does a root canal hurt?
Root canal treatment is done to relieve pain, not cause it. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure to ensure your comfort. Sedation options are available for anxious patients who need relaxation assistance.
Why see an endodontist for root canal therapy?
Many dentists provide root canal treatment, but an endodontist specializes in the procedure, using advanced technology and techniques to give your tooth the best chance of surviving.
Contact Sterling Endodontics
If you are in need of root canal therapy, the experts at Sterling Endodontics have the experience and technology necessary to restore your tooth in a comfortable environment. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
The root canal, though one of the most common dental procedures, is one of the most often misunderstood. The dreaded root canal is only perceived as a negative experience due to the myths that people believe about it, which are not based in fact.
If you need a root canal, have no fear. Review the common misconceptions about the procedure and learn the facts so that you can be fully informed and prepared for your upcoming root canal therapy.
Myth: Root Canals Are Painful
Fact: Root Canals Relieve Pain
The procedure for getting a root canal is no more painful than a simple cavity filling. Local anesthesia is used to make you comfortable, numbing the nerves in and around the tooth so that you don’t feel any pain. If you are anxious, sedation can be provided to help you feel more relaxed.
During a root canal the nerves inside the tooth are removed, relieving pain associated with an infection. You will most likely feel better after a root canal than you did beforehand. When performed proactively for a tooth that is at-risk of infection, a root canal can prevent pain.
Myth: The Root Canal Procedure is Long
Fact: Most Root Canals Take Under an Hour
A root canal can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. The average root canal procedure will take less than an hour. Only complex root canals may take closer to an hour and a half.
There are many factors that affect the length of the procedure, such as the size of the tooth, the complexity of the root structure, and the location of the tooth. Larger teeth with more extensive root canal systems may take longer to clean out in order to ensure that all of the infection and dental pulp is removed.
Myth: A Root Canal Can Make You Sick
Fact: There is No Research to Support This
While a tooth infection is caused by bacteria, there is no reason that the root canal procedure will cause you to get sick. Precautions are taken when removing infected tissue to prevent the spread of infection.
You are more likely to get sick if you put off or avoid a root canal. An infected tooth will only worsen, and the infection could enter your bloodstream and travel to your other organs. Failure to treat an at-risk tooth, such as a cracked tooth or a deep cavity, is likely to result in an infection.
Myth: The Root of the Tooth Is Removed During a Root Canal
Fact: A Root Canal Allows the Root to Stay in Place
A root canal does not involve removing the root of the tooth. This would leave the tooth completely unsupported and it would not survive. The goal of a root canal is to preserve the root of the tooth so that it can stay in place, providing support for the remaining tooth material and the crown that will be placed over it.
Myth: It’s Cheaper to Have the Tooth Pulled
Fact: A Root Canal Can Save You Money
The procedure to have a tooth extracted may cost less than a root canal up front. However, just removing the tooth without replacing it can cause a myriad of dental problems, such as shifting teeth and bone loss in the jaw.
Saving the natural tooth with a root canal will cost less than replacing the tooth with a bridge or dental implant. A root canal is covered by most dental insurance plans. It also preserves the natural look and function of your tooth, keeping your smile intact and maintaining your chewing capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
How long can I put off a root canal?
It is in the best interest of your oral health to have a root canal taken care of as soon as your dentist recommends it. Waiting can cause an infection to develop or worsen, lessening the chances that your tooth can be saved.
Do you have options for anxious patients?
If you feel anxious or nervous about getting a root canal, we provide sedation options including nitrous oxide and oral sedation to help you feel more relaxed and comfortable.
At Sterling Endodontics our goal is to save your natural teeth whenever possible in a caring and compassionate environment. We are happy to discuss every aspect of your care to ensure that you are fully informed. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
We’re thrilled to unveil Sterling Endodontics' new and improved online presence at sterlingrootcanal.com. Our redesigned website reflects our commitment to exceptional patient care and seamless collaboration with our referring doctors. This fresh, user-friendly platform combines modern design with easy navigation, making it simpler than ever to find information, access services, and connect with our team.
Who We Are
Sterling Endodontics is a trusted practice dedicated to advanced root canal treatments and endodontic care. We proudly serve the Maryland community, focusing on improving dental health through expert techniques, cutting-edge technology, and patient-centered care.
With three convenient locations in Glen Burnie, Timonium, and Rosedale, we are ready to provide the specialized care you need in a friendly, welcoming environment. From the moment you walk through our doors, our goal is to ensure that you feel comfortable, confident, and cared for.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: We aim to blend the latest advancements in endodontics with a human touch. Whether you’re experiencing pain or discomfort or need complex dental procedures, our team is here to help you save your natural teeth and maintain your dental health with as little stress as possible.
Meet Our Leadership and Team
At the forefront of Sterling Endodontics is Dr. Juheon Seung, a highly respected Board-Certified Endodontist. Dr. Seung’s extensive credentials as a Clinical Professor at the University of Maryland Dental School and a past trustee of the American Association of Endodontists Foundation highlight his expertise and dedication to advancing endodontic care.
Dr. Seung is joined by a team of equally talented and compassionate specialists, including:
- Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman – Renowned for his precision and patient-focused care.
- Dr. Kathy Lee is esteemed for her gentle approach and advanced techniques.
- Dr. Alexandra Woo – Trusted for her meticulous attention to detail and ability to put patients at ease.
- Dr. Corey Rollor – Known for his dedication to effective, pain-free solutions.
Each professional on our team brings a wealth of experience, technical skills, and a commitment to providing the best possible care. Together, we ensure that every patient receives specialized, compassionate treatment that addresses their unique needs.
Comprehensive Services We Offer
At Sterling Endodontics, we believe in personalized care for every patient. That’s why we offer a full spectrum of specialized services designed to treat, heal, and safeguard your natural teeth.
- Root canal therapy is at the core of our practice, and for good reason—it’s one of the most effective ways to relieve dental pain and save natural teeth. Using modern techniques and advanced tools, we ensure that this standard procedure is as seamless and pain-free as possible.
- Endodontic Retreatment: Sometimes, previous dental treatments do not resolve persistent issues. With endodontic retreatment, we can address these concerns precisely and preserve the health of your tooth.
- Microsurgery (Including Apicoectomy): For complex or advanced cases, endodontic microsurgery can provide solutions where standard treatments may not be sufficient. Procedures like apicoectomy allow us to treat infections and save teeth with unprecedented accuracy.
- Pulpal Regeneration: Sterling Endodontics is proud to offer cutting-edge pulpal regeneration services. Using innovative techniques, we can stimulate the natural healing process within the tooth, enabling a safe and healthy recovery.
- Emergency Endodontic Care: We understand that dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them. That’s why we offer same-day emergency care to address sudden pain, injury, or infections. Our team works quickly to alleviate discomfort and provide solutions that restore your dental health.
- Sedation Dentistry: For many patients, the thought of dental procedures can feel overwhelming. Our sedation options are designed to provide relief, helping you relax and feel comfortable throughout your treatment.
- Advanced Imaging with CBCT Technology: Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. Our state-of-the-art CBCT imaging technology allows us to visualize your teeth and gums in exquisite detail, ensuring precise treatment planning and excellent results.
Why Redesign Our Website?
Creating an outstanding patient experience starts with accessibility, and that’s why we’ve reimagined our website. On our new website, you’ll find an intuitive design that makes it simpler to explore our services, meet our team, and connect with us. Whether you’re a patient or a referring doctor, we’ve tailored our website to meet your needs.
Dr. Juheon Seung shares his perspective on this exciting update:
“Our goal is simple—we want every visitor to our website to feel confident in our expertise, inspired by the advanced technology we use, and reassured by the care, professionalism, and compassion of our entire team.”
The website also includes valuable resources, such as educational content about our services, detailed information about procedures, and an easy-to-use appointment scheduler. Our patients and referring doctors now have access to everything they need at their fingertips.
Convenient Locations
No matter where in Maryland you are, our three conveniently located offices ensure that high-quality care is always within reach. We’re located in the following areas to serve you better:
- Glen Burnie – A welcoming office with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Timonium – Conveniently located for patients in the northern Maryland area.
- Rosedale – A friendly space close to Baltimore and the surrounding communities.
Each of our offices offers the same exceptional standard of care, and our team will help you find the location that best suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sterling Endodontics
What is a root canal, and why is it important?
A root canal is a restorative dental procedure designed to treat and preserve an infected or severely damaged tooth. It involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection. Often, a dental crown is added to restore the tooth’s strength.
Without treatment, an infected tooth can cause significant pain, abscesses, and even tooth loss. Root canal therapy not only alleviates pain but also helps maintain a person's natural bite and smile.
Who should consider endodontic treatment?
Endodontic treatment is essential for anyone with persistent tooth pain, advanced decay, or damage to the pulp of the tooth. If your general dentist has referred you or you are experiencing symptoms like sensitivity to heat or swelling, our team is here to provide expert care.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Scheduling an appointment is easier than ever. Simply contact us via our website or call the location nearest you.
- Glen Burnie:
- Timonium:
- Rosedale:
Discover the Sterling Endodontics Difference
At Sterling Endodontics, we set the standard for modern, patient-focused endodontic care. Whether you’re seeking relief from dental pain or exploring options to preserve your teeth, our compassionate team is here to help you every step of the way.
We encourage you to experience the difference of specialized care rooted in expertise, precision, and understanding. Contact us today and take your first step towards a healthier, brighter smile. Your comfort and peace of mind are always our top priority!