Endodontics

Endodontics image

A root canal is performed to avoid the need for a tooth extraction. The goal of a root canal is to remove diseased tissue from the pulp of the affected tooth. We offer root canal treatment in the comfort of our Montclair-based dental office. Root canals are one of the most commonly performed procedures in our dental office. We take the necessary steps to ensure you are comfortable, relaxed, and safe during the procedure.


The pulp chamber is located in the middle of the tooth, under two protective layers, the dentin layer and the enamel layer. Inside the chamber is the pulp of the tooth, which is made of blood vessels, tissue, and nerves. If the tooth is compromised in any way, it can leave the pulp vulnerable to germs and bacteria. Tooth decay, cracks in the tooth, and major tooth trauma can cause those germs to enter the pulp chamber, which will lead to an infection. When the pulp becomes infected and inflamed, it is very painful. This infection is called pulpitis. If you think you are suffering from this, it is important to visit our team for treatment.

When the tooth is infected, our team must remove the diseased portion of the tooth in hopes of saving it from extraction. A root canal is recommended for a severely decayed, infected, or damaged tooth. When harmful bacteria enter the pulp of the tooth, the structure of the tooth is compromised. The goal is to remove the infection and stop the spread of bacteria.

What to Expect

Before your root canal procedure, Dr. Paula Izvernari will work with you to answer any questions you may have regarding the treatment. We have created an atmosphere where you can feel safe, relaxed, and informed.

To start, your dentist will carefully numb the area around the affected tooth. If you are experiencing severe anxiety about the procedure, we can also provide the appropriate sedation option. To access the diseased tissue, a small hole is created using a dental drill.

Using special tools, your dentist will gently remove all of the diseased tissue from the affected tooth.

The pulp chamber is carefully cleaned and filled with the appropriate build-up material. The tooth is restored using a custom-designed dental crown.

A root canal can bring much-needed relief to a damaged tooth. Dr. Izvernari will provide any aftercare instructions after your root canal procedure.


Frequently Asked Questions

Modern anesthesia techniques make root canal procedures relatively painless. Prior to starting the treatment, a local anesthetic is administered to completely numb the area. Sedation options are also available for patients who are nervous or stressed about their treatment.

You will receive specific aftercare instructions from Dr. Izvernari after your root canal procedure. Following these guidelines will ensure proper healing of your teeth after the procedure, as well as let you know when you may resume normal eating habits.

The procedure includes removing diseased pulp tissue, cleaning the tooth's interior chambers, and filling them with restorative material. After that, a custom-designed dental crown is applied to restore the tooth. If you have specific timeline concerns, Dr. Izvernari will discuss them with you.

A root canal is a highly effective method of saving compromised teeth, with an excellent success rate. Rather than removing the natural tooth structure, patients can preserve it with endodontic treatment. The procedure can reduce discomfort and help you maintain a healthy smile.

Root canals are necessary when the pulp inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected. The pulp chamber can become infected by bacteria and germs due to decay, cracks in the tooth, and major tooth trauma. Pulpitis is a painful infection that requires immediate attention.

The infection will continue to spread and cause increasing pain without root canal treatment. Root canals remove infection and stop bacteria from spreading, ultimately preventing tooth extraction and preserving your natural smile.

Some common symptoms that may indicate the necessity for a root canal treatment include:

  • Severe tooth pain that progresses over time, as well as tooth sensitivity
  • Tender or swollen gums near an infection site and bad breath
  • A pimple filled with pus around the gum
  • Jawbone abscess detected by X-ray
  • Darkening of a tooth