SERVICES | RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY
Gentle Endodontic Care at Smithberger DDS
When tooth pain strikes, you need fast, effective care. At Smithberger DDS in Towson, MD, we provide gentle root canal treatments that relieve discomfort, eliminate infection, and save your natural teeth. Thanks to modern techniques and technology, today’s root canal therapy is comfortable, efficient, and highly successful.
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure used to remove infected or damaged pulp tissue inside a tooth. The pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, can become inflamed or infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental work. If left untreated, this infection can spread, leading to severe pain, abscesses, and tooth loss. A root canal allows us to clean and seal the inside of the tooth, preserving its structure and restoring your smile’s health.
Not all toothaches require root canal therapy, but some symptoms suggest that treatment may be necessary:
✔ Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
✔ Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
✔ Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth
✔ Darkening or discoloration of the toot
✔ A recurring pimple or bump on the gums
Early intervention is critical. If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation right away to avoid worsening problems.
Root canals offer more than just relief from pain. They help preserve your natural tooth, maintain normal chewing function, and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting out of place. In contrast, extracting an infected tooth without replacement can lead to bone loss, bite problems, and costly restorative needs later. By choosing root canal therapy, you’re investing in both your immediate comfort and your long-term oral health.
During your appointment, we first ensure your comfort with local anesthesia. Once the area is numb, we create a small opening in the tooth to access and remove the infected pulp. The space is then carefully cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a biocompatible material. Finally, the tooth is sealed to prevent further infection. In many cases, a crown is recommended afterward to restore strength and full function.
Thanks to modern advances, root canal treatment is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Most patients report immediate relief from their pain once the procedure is completed.
Most patients return to normal activities the day after their procedure. You may experience mild sensitivity or soreness, but this typically subsides within a few days. Following all aftercare instructions—including taking any prescribed medications and attending follow-up appointments—ensures a smooth recovery and a successful outcome.
