What is Adults Root Canal Therapy, and Why It Matters
Adults root canal therapy (sometimes called pediatric endodontic treatment) is a procedure to remove diseased pulp from inside a young tooth, whether baby or newly erupted permanent, and to clean, disinfect, and seal it properly. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue; infection or injury there can lead to pain, swelling, or abscess.
The Process of Adults Root Canal Therapy at Liv Endodontics
We’ve refined our process to ensure safety, comfort, and efficacy.
Comprehensive Assessment
From the first appointment, our specialists evaluate the tooth using clinical examination and imaging (e.g., digital radiographs or CBCT scans when necessary). We assess the extent of decay or trauma, the degree of pulp involvement, root development, and overall health of the child.
Treatment Planning & Parental Communication
We believe in clear, compassionate communication. We’ll walk parents (and the child, as age-appropriate) through what will happen: from numbing, clean-out of infected pulp, shaping of root canals, to sealing and final restoration. We discuss alternatives, risks, and benefits so families can make informed decisions.
Procedure
- Anesthesia / Sedation: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area. If needed, sedation options are discussed.
- Pulp Removal & Disinfection: Using specialized instruments and magnification, we remove the diseased pulp and disinfect the canals thoroughly.
- Canal Filling / Apexification: In young permanent teeth where the root isn’t fully developed, special materials might be used to encourage root closure (apexogenesis or apexification). For primary teeth, we use resorbable materials as appropriate.
- Sealing & Restoration: After canal treatment, we seal the canal to prevent bacterial re-entry. A crown or other restoration may be placed to protect the tooth’s structure.
Aftercare & Follow-Up
Post-op instructions are given to manage discomfort (which is usually minimal at Liv Endodontics thanks to our gentle techniques). We schedule follow-ups to monitor healing, ensure there’s no lingering infection, and verify the tooth is functioning well in chewing. Liv Endodontics’ team is specialists trained in pediatric endodontics and general endodontic surgery. Our goal is that your child’s experience with root canal therapy is as stress-free and successful as possible.
Frequently asked questions
Is an apicoectomy the same as a root canal?
No. A root canal treats infection from inside the tooth, while an apicoectomy treats infection at the tip of the root—usually when a previous root canal has failed. It’s a microsurgical solution used to preserve your natural tooth.
How do I know if I need an apicoectomy?
If you’ve had a root canal but still experience pain, swelling, or signs of infection, your dentist or endodontist may recommend an apicoectomy. At Liv Endodontics in Livingston and Summit, we use CBCT imaging to confirm if it’s the right treatment.
Is the procedure painful?
Not at all. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, and we offer sedation options for added comfort. Most patients report only mild soreness after surgery.
How long does it take to recover from an apicoectomy?
Most people resume normal activity within 1–2 days. Full healing may take a few weeks. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions and monitor your recovery closely.
What is the success rate of an apicoectomy?
Modern apicoectomies have a success rate of over 90% when performed with advanced imaging and microsurgical tools—both standard at Liv Endodontics.
Will I still need a crown after an apicoectomy?
Can an apicoectomy fail?
Like any procedure, there’s a small chance of failure—usually due to complex anatomy or untreated infection. However, our high-tech tools and surgical expertise greatly reduce that risk.
Are apicoectomies covered by dental insurance?
Many insurance plans cover part or all of the cost, especially if the tooth was previously treated with a root canal. We’ll help you confirm your coverage and explain your options.
What if I don’t treat the infection at the root tip?
Delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread to surrounding bone and tissue, possibly leading to tooth loss or more invasive surgery. Early action helps preserve your tooth and avoid complications.
When Adults Root Canal Therapy is Recommended, Other Considerations
Knowing when adult root canal therapy is the best option helps parents act early. Below are scenarios and related emergencies that may warrant immediate care, including those involving cracked teeth or severe pain.
- Trauma or Injury: If a child falls, is hit in the mouth, or has a blow to a tooth, even if it looks only superficially damaged, the pulp may be compromised. If you see discoloration, looseness, or sensitivity in the tooth, come in for evaluation. In such cases, Adults root canal therapy may be necessary to save the tooth.
- Deep decay reaching the pulp: Cavities that extend deeply into the tooth structure can infect the nerve tissue. If fillings are no longer enough, the pulp must be treated. Otherwise, pain and infection may worsen, possibly affecting adjacent teeth or bone.
- Persistent toothache or swelling: Symptoms like throbbing pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling of gums or face, or a draining abscess are signs of serious pulp involvement. These are often emergencies. At Liv Endodontics, we offer emergency dentistry services for such situations. We can see patients the same day if needed.
Expert care, close to home
Request your appointment today and experience modern, painless endodontic care.
What our patients are saying
“ Outstanding experience. You can really trust the experts here. The space is clean, the team leads with professionalism and empathy. I felt very well taken care of.”
Patient
Summit
“Though a new patient, I was treated like an old friend. Courtesy, comfort and care for the patient appear to be top priorities here. Every person I saw was extremely nice and likable.”
Patient
Livingston
Root canal therapy
Cracked tooth treatment
Root canal retreatment
Emergency dentistry
Apicoectomy & microsurgery
Lightening discolored teeth