Annapolis Dentist

Root Canal Therapy

A root canal is a treatment of the center of the tooth that is inflamed, infected or dead. The center of the tooth, called the pulp, is a soft substance that consists of nerve, blood vessels and connective tissue. Symptoms of the infection include visible injury or swelling of the tooth and sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums. If you experience any of the symptoms, contact your dental office.

Your dentist will take an x-ray of the tooth. If he or she determines that you need a root canal treatment, 1 or 2 appointments will be schedulred based on the size and duration of the abscess and other factors.

Before starting root canal therapy, the doctor will administer local anesthesia to ensure your complete comfort. A dental dam is placed on the infected site to isolate the affected area. A small opening is made through the top of the tooth to gain access to the pulp. The pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the root canal, is removed from the chamber and canals. The canals are then cleaned with a disinfecting solution. X-rays may be taken throughout the procedure to ensure each canal is being adequately treated.

Once the canals are cleaned, they are filled with gutta percha, a rubber-like material to protect and seal. A temporary filling may be placed in the opening until it can be replaced by a permanent filling. After the root canal is completed, the tooth will need a crown to protect it from fracturing.

After the procedure, your tooth may feel sensitive for the first few days. This discomfort may be relieved with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until you have a full restoration.

Root canal therapy can preserve a patient’s tooth for a lifetime. It is a highly successful procedure with more than a 95% success rate.

Dentist in Annapolis

We Welcome New Patients

Patton Smiles

104 Forbes St. Suite 204
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 295-1000

Providing Dental Care For the Communities of:

Annapolis, Admiral Heights, West Annapolis, Loretta Heights, Eastport, Forest Villa & surrounding areas

Convenient Office Hours:

Monday: 7:00am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 7:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 7:00am - 4:00pm
Thursday: 7:00am - 4:00pm
Friday: By Appointment only

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  • America Dental Association
  • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
  • American Dental Society of Anesthesiology: ADSA
  • Maryland State Dental Association

Annapolis, MD Dentist

See What Our Patients Are Saying

Dentist in Annapolis

I am very pleased that I found Patton Smiles. My husband and I have received outstanding care and the staff is wonderful! We never have to wait when we have an appointment and all of the staff are very professional and caring. The office is immaculate. I highly recommend this dental practice.

Priscilla P. Admiral Heights, MD Dental Patient

Dentist in Annapolis

I’ve been seeing Dr Patton for several years, he is always smiling and will go above and beyond to help with your needs. The staff is amazing and always helpful. I would and have recommended Patton Smiles to several of my friends who also go there.

Nancy M.

Dentist in Annapolis

By far the best dentist office, service and staff in all of Maryland!! Dr. Patton is great and passionate about his work. The staff is so kind and pleasant to deal with. I’ve referred everyone I know here!

Elaine E.

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104 Forbes Street
Suite 204
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 295-1000