Apical Microsurgery (apicoectomy)
Scottsdale, AZ

A root canal is the treatment of choice in order to save a tooth that would otherwise die and need to be extracted. Many patients believe that removing the problematic tooth is the solution, but in reality, extracting a tooth may cause significant problems for adjacent teeth, and ultimately be more costly.

You may need a root canal if you have any of the following symptoms:

• An abscess on the gum
• Sensitivity to hot or cold
• Severe toothache pain
• Swelling and/or tenderness

 It’s important to remember that some people who need a root canal may never have any symptoms. That’s why regular checkups with your general dentist are so important.

A root canal procedure is typically performed by an endodontist (root canal specialist). The procedure begins with numbing the tooth, then opening the top of it in order to access and clean. Dr. McClammy is well-versed on the latest root canal techniques and uses the GentleWave® system to clean the tooth’s root system more efficiently, with less pain and a lot less chair time than the older, more traditional technique. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, the roots are filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.Dr. McClammy then places a temporary filling to cover the opening on top of the tooth until a crown can be placed. The crown will protect the tooth and prevent the root canal from breaking while restoring it to its full function.

After treatment, your tooth may be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.

The first step in a root canal retreatment is to administer a local anesthetic. Next, Dr. McClammy will gain access to the inner tooth by removing any crown or post that has been placed. He will then remove the filling material and obstructions that block the root canals by using an ultrasonic handpiece that vibrates loose any unwanted material. Tiny, specialized instruments will then be used to clean and reshape the root canals. When Dr. McClammy is confident the root canals are completely clean, he will pack the space with gutta-percha. This rubbery material seals the canals to prevent bacterial invasion. Finally, a temporary crown or filling is applied to tooth. Your general dentist will make a crown for the tooth, if needed. Many times the existing crown can be saved and a permanent filling is used to fill in the access opening.