Root Canals & Extractions in Concord, NH
Our goal at White Park Dental is to keep your teeth healthy so that they can last you a lifetime. Unfortunately, life can get in the way, so this doesn’t always happen. Injury and infection can severely damage teeth to the point where measures beyond cleaning or a simple filling are needed.
Most patients become fearful when they are told that they need a root canal or an extraction, but the truth is that both of these procedures are simple, effective, and – thanks to modern techniques and technology – more efficient and comfortable than ever before.
Your comfort is always our top priority, and we take your concerns seriously. If you are worried about your procedure, please let us know so that we can help you.
Root Canals – A Time-Tested Procedure to Save Your Tooth
People tend to associate root canals with pain, but the truth is that this is actually a routine procedure that relieves pain caused by severe decay and infection. A recent study conducted by the American Association of Endodontics (the branch of dentistry that includes root canal therapy) found that patients who were most likely to describe a root canal as painful had never even had a root canal!
Dr. Harvey works with specialists who have skills and experience in this procedure and have fantastic success rates. Root canal therapy gives us an opportunity to save your tooth, which is almost always preferable to losing it.
Extractions to Protect Your Oral Health
In some cases, it’s simply not practical or realistic to save a tooth, even with a root canal. If a tooth cannot be saved, it will need to be extracted to prevent infection or damage to your other teeth.
Some reasons why we might need to remove a tooth include:
- Severe decay has damaged a significant portion of the tooth.
- The tooth has broken beneath the gumline.
- The tooth is impacted (completely or partially trapped beneath the gum – a common problem with wisdom teeth).
- There is not enough space in your mouth and removing a tooth will relieve crowding.
- You are preparing for dentures or certain orthodontic procedures.
We take the time to make sure that your extraction procedure is done correctly, and we will make sure that you are kept comfortable throughout.
We Are There for You When You Need Us
Following your procedure, we will provide you with aftercare instructions so that you can stay comfortable while you heal. If you ever have a question or a concern, we urge you to call our office right away so that we can help you.
Proper self-care will prevent most types of complications, including dry socket, in the case of extraction.
Do I Need a Root Canal or an Extraction?
If you are experiencing any type of dental pain, please call us right away and let us know. Dental pain is never normal and is your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. Dr. Harvey will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain and the most appropriate treatment.
Ignoring the problem will only cause it to get worse. Contact us now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Each patient may experience a slightly different period of down-time after a dental extraction. It is important to follow the dentist’s instructions following the procedure including initially eating softer food on the opposite side of your mouth. It is wise avoiding smoking, sucking through a straw, and heavy lifting/exercise during your recovery to avoid dry socket.
Your Comfort Is Important
You may be feeling more comfortable even after 24-48 hours, but some surgical sites may be sore for a couple weeks. Drs. Harvey and Bogacz can guide you in recommendations for pain management. It takes time for your mouth to heal, please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
A root canal may be needed when the pulp/nerve of the tooth, which supplies blood and sensation, dies due to infection or trauma. It is important to remove the infected portion of the tooth before the infection can spread further, and should not be delayed as complications or loss of the tooth could arise. Discomfort during dental procedures is managed with local anesthetic to numb the area in order to provide care in an efficient and comfortable manner.
Meet Our Doctor:
Kristen E. Harvey DDS, MAGD
Dr. Kristen E. Harvey graduated magna cum laude from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry in 2010. She was recognized for academic excellence and leadership by being inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon and was awarded the Maryland Academy of General Dentistry Award for High Proficiency in Clinical Care and Patient Management.
Prior to dental school, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology at The Pennsylvania State University. In the following year, she was a research fellow at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research in Bethesda, Maryland.
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Featured Blog Posts - Root Canals & Extractions
Understanding Dental Extraction: What to Expect and How to Prepare
A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure performed for various reasons, including severe tooth decay, gum disease, or preparation for orthodontic treatment. Though this procedure may cause some anxiety, knowing what to expect can go a long way toward easing your concerns. Here's your guide to navigating tooth extraction in Concord, NH.
What to Expect during Tooth Extraction
- Before the Procedure — Your dentist will take an x-ray of the area to plan the best way to remove the tooth. Be sure to inform them about any medications you're taking ...