Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment in Dover, DE at American Dental Care. Relieve tooth pain caused by deep decay or infection and save your natural tooth. Call 302-734-7634.
Root Canal Treatment in Dover, DE
Hours
Monday - Thursday
Friday
Saturday - Sunday
8:00AM - 5:00PM
8:00AM - 2:00PM
Closed
Root Canal Treatment in Dover, DE
A severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers, or swelling near a tooth can mean the nerve inside the tooth is inflamed or infected. At American Dental Care, located at 60 Wolf Creek Boulevard in Dover, our dentists find the cause of your pain and, when root canal treatment is the right option, treat the tooth so you can keep your natural smile.
What Is a Root Canal?
Inside every tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Deep decay, a crack, an injury, or repeated dental work can allow bacteria to reach the pulp. During root canal treatment, your dentist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, cleans and shapes the canals inside the root, and seals them. This removes the source of infection while keeping your natural tooth in place.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Persistent or throbbing tooth pain, especially when chewing or biting
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts after the food or drink is gone
Swollen or tender gums near one tooth
A pimple-like bump on the gums
A tooth that has darkened in color
A cracked or chipped tooth that hurts
Some infected teeth cause little or no pain, which is why regular oral exams and dental X-rays are important. Only an exam can confirm whether you need a root canal.
How We Diagnose Tooth Pain
Your visit starts with a careful exam and digital X-rays, with 3D imaging available when more detail is needed. Your dentist will explain what is causing your symptoms, whether the tooth can be saved, and the options available to you, including root canal treatment or extraction.
What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment
Numbing: Your dentist numbs the tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia.
Cleaning the canals: A small opening is made in the tooth so the infected or inflamed pulp can be removed and the canals cleaned and shaped.
Sealing: The canals are filled and sealed to help prevent reinfection, and a temporary or permanent filling closes the opening.
Restoring the tooth: Many treated teeth, especially back teeth, need a dental crown to protect them from cracking and restore normal chewing.
Treatment may be completed in one visit or more, depending on the tooth and the extent of the infection. If you feel anxious about dental visits, ask us about sedation dentistry options.
Recovery and Aftercare
It is common for the tooth to feel tender for a few days after treatment. Your dentist will tell you which over-the-counter pain relievers are appropriate for you. Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until it has its final restoration, keep brushing and flossing normally, and attend your follow-up visits. Call our office if you notice swelling, severe pain, or a bite that feels uneven.
Root Canal or Tooth Extraction?
Keeping your natural tooth helps you chew comfortably and prevents neighboring teeth from shifting. When a tooth cannot be saved, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction and discuss replacement options such as dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures. We will explain the benefits, risks, and alternatives of each option before you decide.
Root Canal Cost and Insurance
The cost of root canal treatment depends on which tooth is treated, how complex the root canals are, and the restoration needed afterward. Ask our team for a written estimate and information about available payment options. Insurance coverage varies by plan; a benefits review is not a guarantee of payment.
Tooth Pain? Don't Wait
A tooth infection does not heal on its own and can spread if left untreated. If you have severe pain, facial swelling, or a fever with a toothache, call us right away. Learn more about emergency dental care in Dover. We welcome patients from Dover and nearby communities including Camden, Wyoming, Magnolia, Smyrna, and Felton.
Schedule a Root Canal Consultation in Dover
Call 302-734-7634 or use our online appointment link to request a visit. We are open Monday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, and Friday, 8:00 AM–2:00 PM.