Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why am I being referred?

A: Your dentist believes that your present needs require the services of a specialist, since some root canals are far more complex than others. We are an extension of your dentist's skill, care and concern for your well being.

Q: How can we make your treatment comfortable?

A: With local anesthetic, root canal therapy involves virtually no discomfort. Dr. Katsarsky will administer your local anesthetic as gently as possible and double check prior to beginning that you are completely comfortable. We treat only one patient at a time. Except for unscheduled emergency patients, your appointment time is reserved just for you. Most treatment is completed in one visit of 1½ -2 hours. Before beginning treatment you will have time to have all of your questions, including those about fees, answered. We have televisions, blankets, complimentary beverages, as well as other amenities available to help assure that you have the best experience possible. Some patients have tenderness after treatment and medication to help relieve discomfort will be prescribed if appropriate.

Q: What makes this office different?

A: We treat individuals in our care like guests in our own homes. We recognize that every patient has wants and needs, and it is our highest priority to provide individualized care for every patient. We treat every patient with respect and understanding in a caring and comfortable environment. Our office is state-of-the-art in every way. We use the most modern, safe and effective materials and methods. One example is the use of digital radiography in place of conventional dental x-rays. Digital radiography requires a fraction of the radiation needed for conventional x-rays and allows images to be viewed on a computer for better diagnosis and patient education.

Q: How long will treatment take?

A: Every effort will be made to complete your tooth in one visit, although this is not always possible. Once started, root canal therapy is usually completed in one visit of approximately 1½-2 hours.

Q: What are the fees for treatment?

A: Fees charged per tooth vary depending on case complexity and the treatment that is performed. The most accurate estimate of the fee for treatment can only be provided after we have seen you to evaluate your specific needs. Please be aware that, although you may have dental insurance it is you who solely responsible for any balance not covered by your insurance company or any other third party.

Q: Who does what treatment?

A: Our office provides the endodontic treatment. Then, unless you are told otherwise, your general dentist will place a build-up (foundation filling) to permanently seal your tooth after your root canal. Your build-up or permanent filling should be placed within six weeks of your root canal. After the build-up, your general dentist will most likely recommend a new crown for your tooth. Please call your regular dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for this additional treatment. Neglecting needed follow-up treatment could lead to failure of your new root canal and loss of your tooth.

Q: What is normal after a root canal?

A: Most patients have some mild soreness for a day or two after root canal treatment. For some patients, the sensitivity may last for a longer period of time (days to weeks). Generally, if the sensitivity is diminishing as time goes by, healing is taking place. If you have a question about what is normal, please call us.

After your treatment visit:

• Many endodontic procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by inflammation or infection. For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can often be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications.
• Avoid chewing directly on the tooth after endodontic treatment as tenderness to pressure is normal. Switching to a softer diet may be necessary but otherwise eat what is comfortable on the opposite side.
• If moderate discomfort occurs, we recommend an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen (e.g. Advil, 3-4 tablets, 600-800 mg., every six hours) if you are able to use this type of medication. Aspirin as a second choice is recommended. Tylenol is a third choice for those who cannot take ibuprofen or aspirin. If a prescription pain medication is also required, take it as needed midway between doses of ibuprofen, or aspirin.
• If antibiotics are prescribed, be sure to follow the directions and finish the course of medication completely. If side effects occur (i.e. nausea, diarrhea, itching or rash), discontinue the antibiotic immediately and call our office.
• Gently clean the tooth and tissue around the area of treatment with a soft brush. It will not damage the tooth or tissue to brush the area gently.
• If you are using the prescription pain medication, do not drink alcoholic beverages, drive or operate machinery.
• If part of your tongue remains numb after leaving the office use extreme caution chewing until the numbness has worn off, so that you do not inadvertently bite the side of your tongue.
• Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. However, if you have severe pain or pressure, or pain that lasts more than a few days, please call our office 315-637-3930.
  

Q: How successful is root canal treatment?

A: Root canal therapy is very successful, generally 95% depending on case complexity. A very small number of difficult teeth fail without apparent reason despite appropriate clinical treatment. Failure may also occur because: the tooth is not sealed (crowned) after root canal therapy, a root cracks, or a crack that was present prior to treatment advances.

Q: Can there be complications?

A: The vast majority of all root canal treatment is successful and is completed without complication. Although very infrequent, there exist numerous potential complications that can occur during root canal therapy. The most common complication involves the accidental separation of files which are used to clean and shape the root canal space. If a file does separate, and it cannot be retrieved or sealed within the tooth then referral for surgical treatment or extraction of the tooth may become necessary.

Q: Why do I need a crown (cap)?

A: Once a tooth has had root canal treatment it becomes very fragile, making it more susceptible to fracture. Covering the tooth with a crown (also commonly known as a “cap”) helps protect it. If your tooth already has a crown, you may only need a permanent filling. Your general dentist will determine what type of permanent restoration will be best for you.

Q: What type of foods can I eat?

A: In most cases you can eat whatever you feel comfortable eating. Because the tooth will be tender for several days, you may feel better chewing on the side opposite of the treated area. And, it is always best to exercise caution chewing until the crown is placed in order to minimize the risk of fracturing the tooth.

Q: How soon do I need to get the permanent restoration?

A: We have placed a temporary filling that should stay intact for four to six weeks. We recommend that you return to your general dentist within this period of time. However, if there is already a crack in your tooth it may be advisable to see your dentist sooner. Generally, it is alright to proceed with the final restorative treatment once all of the symptoms in this area have resolved.

Q: Can I drive myself home?

A: Yes, you will be fine to drive (unless you have had some type of sedation). If you wish sedation please let us know in advance since a consultation visit will be necessary prior to scheduling a visit for the actual treatment if you will be having sedation.