Root Canal Therapy in Summerville, SC

When a tooth becomes infected from the inside, root canal therapy is the most reliable way to save it, and the procedure is far more comfortable than its reputation suggests. Modern techniques and effective local anesthesia have made treatment comparable in discomfort to a routine filling. If you’ve been told you may need a root canal, acting promptly gives the tooth the best chance of long-term survival and prevents the infection from spreading.

At Old Trolley Dental Associates, Dr. Scott Kibler and Dr. Michael Skovira provide root canal therapy as part of a comprehensive approach to general dentistry in Summerville, SC. As a private, two-doctor practice, we take the time to walk you through every step, address questions before treatment begins, and make sure you feel fully prepared. We believe informed patients are more comfortable patients, and we build every appointment around that.

When Root Canal Therapy Is Needed

The inner portion of every tooth contains a soft tissue called the pulp, which houses nerves and blood vessels. When that pulp becomes infected or severely inflamed through deep decay, a crack, trauma, or repeated procedures on the same tooth, root canal therapy removes the damaged tissue and seals the tooth to prevent further infection. Without treatment, an infected tooth can abscess, cause considerable pain, and ultimately be lost.

Symptoms worth paying attention to include persistent sensitivity to heat or cold, sharp pain when biting down, swelling or tenderness in the gum tissue near a tooth, and a recurring bump on the gums. Some infected teeth, however, produce no noticeable symptoms at all. According to a 2023 systematic review published in the National Institutes of Health database, root canal-treated teeth represent a meaningful portion of the adult population globally, reflecting how prevalent endodontic disease truly is. Routine X-rays remain one of the most important tools for catching these issues before they escalate.

Adult woman having a visit at the dentist's

What to Expect During Treatment

Root canal therapy is typically completed in one or two appointments, depending on the tooth and the extent of the infection. Our 3D cone beam imaging technology gives us a precise, three-dimensional view of the root anatomy before we begin, which improves both accuracy and safety throughout the procedure.

The steps involved are straightforward. We numb the area completely before any work begins, so you should feel pressure but not pain. A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth, and the infected pulp is carefully removed. The canals are then cleaned, shaped, and disinfected before being filled with a biocompatible material and sealed. Most patients are genuinely surprised by how manageable the experience is compared to what they anticipated.

After the Procedure: Restoration and Recovery

Following root canal therapy, the treated tooth will need a dental crown in most cases. A crown protects the tooth from fracture, restores its shape and function, and significantly extends its lifespan. We will discuss whether a crown is necessary and plan that next step before you leave our office.

Mild soreness in the days after treatment is normal and typically resolves within a week. Over-the-counter pain relief is generally sufficient, and most patients return to regular activities the next day. We recommend avoiding chewing on the treated side until the permanent restoration is in place. If you have any concerns during recovery, our team is available and easy to reach.

Other Factors That Can Potentially Affect Treatment Outcomes

Patients dealing with both an infected tooth and active gum disease may benefit from addressing both conditions at the same time. Untreated periodontal disease can compromise healing and affect the long-term stability of a restored tooth. Our team will assess your gum health as part of your overall evaluation and may recommend gum disease treatment alongside endodontic care when appropriate.

For patients who feel anxious about dental procedures, we want you to know you are not alone, and we have options to help. Sedation dentistry is available for patients who want a more relaxed experience. Oral sedation is safe, effective, and can make a meaningful difference in how you feel during the appointment. We encourage you to ask about it when you schedule.

Here is a brief overview of what root canal therapy typically involves from start to finish:

  • Imaging and diagnosis: X-rays and 3D imaging help us assess the full scope of the infection and the shape of the root canals before treatment begins.
  • Anesthesia: The tooth and surrounding tissue are numbed completely so you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
  • Pulp removal and cleaning: The infected tissue is removed, and the canals are thoroughly cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
  • Sealing: The canals are filled with gutta-percha, a biocompatible material, and the tooth is sealed to prevent reinfection.
  • Restoration: A crown is placed over the tooth to restore strength and protect against future fracture.

Each of these steps is completed with care, and we check in with you throughout to make sure you are comfortable and informed.

Save the Tooth at Old Trolley Dental Associates in Summerville, SC

Root canal therapy only works as a long-term solution when the tooth is restored properly afterward, and that is exactly the kind of complete, coordinated care Old Trolley is built to deliver. Dr. Skovira completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at MUSC with extensive training in complex restorative treatment, and Dr. Kibler brings decades of private practice experience and active membership in the Seattle Study Club and the Academy of General Dentistry. As an independent two-doctor practice, we handle everything from diagnosis through final crown placement without sending you somewhere else. You work with the same team from your first appointment to your last.

We accept most major PPO insurance plans and offer flexible financing through Cherry and CareCredit to help make necessary treatment accessible. If you have a tooth that has been bothering you or have been told a root canal may be needed, the sooner you address it, the better the outcome. Contact our team to schedule a consultation at our Summerville office.