First Appointment

After completing new patient paperwork and medical history (in our Patient Forms tab), we will review your medical history & medications, complete required imaging, and clinically evaluate your tooth along with its neighbors. Dr. Miller will then review recommended treatment as well as any alternatives. If you were scheduled for same-day treatment, you will be given a copy of your treatment plan and any financial responsibility prior to beginning. If you were scheduled for a consult, we will reappoint you for your treatment.

Does it Hurt?

No. We will always test the area to confirm complete analgesia prior to beginning any procedure. Every endodontist is trained in advanced techniques of local anesthesia. You should only be aware of pressure and vibration during your procedure.

Will it hurt after the procedure?

After a root canal, any temperature sensitivity on the tooth will cease. Symptoms of chewing pain, swelling, drainage, and background ache generally take 3 days to improve and 2-3 weeks to resolve. You will likely need to take over-the-counter pain medication for the first few days. Prescription pain medications are dispensed on a case-by-case basis.

Can I be put to sleep?

Unfortunately, we are unable to perform IV sedation in our office. Our office is equipped for same-day nitrous oxide (laughing gas) administration or next-day oral anxiolysis (i.e. - Valium or Halcion). When scheduling, be sure to alert our team, if you wish to use either of these modalities.

1-Step vs. 2-Step Treatment

We attempt to perform non-surgical procedures in a single visit.  However, many root canals require an additional, shorter appointment 2-3 weeks later to allow a calcium-based, antibacterial dressing to further disinfect the tooth during that time.  Usually, these teeth present with large or draining infections, cracks/fractures, particularly difficult anatomy, and/or calcification.  Ultimately, we will not know the number of appointments required until we begin treatment.