Root Canal Treatment
Saving a Damaged Tooth
Dr. Kevin Poupore uses root canal therapy to treat a severely damaged tooth. This procedure eliminates an infection deep inside the tooth, restoring the tooth’s natural function.
Every year, dentists use root canal therapy to save millions of teeth that would otherwise be lost to extraction.
Dr. Poupore has extensive experience providing root canal therapy to our patients in Malone, NY and surrounding areas including Potsdam, Massena, Chateaugay, Norwood, Norfolk, and Akwesasne. We’ll help you preserve your natural teeth and keep them healthy.
Root Canal:
Questions & Answers
Why is root canal treatment performed?
The deepest layer of your tooth is known as the pulp — it contains the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that nurture the tooth. Dr. Poupore uses root canal therapy to treat an infection of the tooth’s pulp. Then we’ll restore your tooth with a dental crown so it looks and feels like new.
The pulp is contained within narrow channels or canals that extend from the center of the tooth all the way down to the root and jawbone. If the damaged pulp isn’t treated, the infection can spread, seriously threatening your smile.
What happens during root canal treatment?
Root canal therapy involves techniques similar to those used to provide a regular dental filling, but with special tools used to access the pulp that’s deep inside your tooth.
Once the damaged pulp is removed, the area is flushed out. Then the empty space is filled with a special material called gutta percha.
Next, Dr. Poupore will attach a dental crown to provide strength and protection. The crown will also eliminate the discoloration that can occur following root canal therapy.
Root canals may be performed using local anesthetic alone or in combination with sedation to help patients relax and remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Do I need to get a crown following root canal treatment?
Yes. Removing the pulp of the tooth can result in weakening of the tooth structure, which means it may be more prone to damage. The crown is necessary to provide additional protection and also to help the tooth look its best.
How will I feel after my root canal treatment?
Dr. Poupore uses advanced pain management techniques to help you remain comfortable while you receive your root canal therapy. Once the anesthetic wears off, any residual discomfort will resolve within a day or so and it can typically be managed with pain medication.
If sedation is used for your procedure, you can expect to feel groggy for a few hours afterward, and you’ll need to arrange to have someone drive you home from your appointment.