When it comes to root canal treatment, choosing the right provider can make a significant difference in the success of your procedure, as well as your overall peace of mind and a pain-free experience. Endodontics is the specialized field that focuses on the inner structures of the tooth and surrounding tissues, requiring specific expertise and precision. At Perry Endodontics—the only practice in Western Massachusetts staffed exclusively by board-certified endodontists—we bring advanced training, certification, and a commitment to excellence in every root canal procedure we perform.
Visit us online at www.perryendo.com or connect with us on Instagram @perryendo to learn more and see our expertise in action.
Why Choose a Specialist for Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal specialists, known as endodontists, complete two or more additional years of focused training beyond dental school to diagnose and treat complex issues affecting the dental pulp and root canal systems. General dentists often perform root canals, but an endodontist specializes exclusively in this type of treatment, making them highly skilled in managing complications and ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Endodontists are the best specialists to determine if a tooth can be saved, and advancements in endodontic technology now enable us to save more teeth than ever before. Because endodontists specialize in root canal treatment and related procedures, they are exceptionally efficient, allowing many root canals to be completed in a single visit. This efficiency doesn’t mean rushing—it’s about the use of precise techniques, advanced technology, and deep knowledge to achieve pain-free, comfortable results. Our endodontists at Perry Endodontics utilize specialized technology—such as surgical microscopes and 3D imaging—to ensure accurate diagnosis, minimally invasive treatment, and successful outcomes. Our priority is a comfortable and successful root canal experience that leaves patients reassured and satisfied.
Common Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Recognizing when a root canal is necessary can make a big difference in preserving a tooth and avoiding further complications. Some signs that you might need a root canal include:
- Persistent pain in the tooth, jaw, or surrounding gums
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling and tenderness around a tooth
- Tooth discoloration or darkening
- A recurring pimple on the gums
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a specialist. Early intervention can often prevent the need for more invasive treatments and help save your natural tooth.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Endodontist?
Board certification represents the highest standard in endodontic expertise. Certified endodontists have completed rigorous examinations by the American Board of Endodontics, demonstrating their commitment to excellence and ongoing education. Less than 20% of endodontists in the United States are board-certified, making this distinction a true marker of dedication and expertise.
At Perry Endodontics, all our endodontists are board-certified and serve as clinical instructors at Harvard University and Tufts University. This combination of practical experience and academic involvement reflects our commitment to patient care and the advancement of endodontics. Being board-certified ensures patients receive the best care, grounded in research-backed techniques and clinical expertise.
What to Expect During Your Root Canal Treatment
For many patients, understanding the root canal process can alleviate concerns and reduce anxiety. A root canal at Perry Endodontics is typically completed in one visit, and our team is dedicated to making the experience as smooth and pain-free as possible. Here’s what to expect:
- Evaluation and Diagnosis: Using advanced imaging technology, we assess the tooth and surrounding tissues to understand the full extent of the issue.
- Pain Management and Anesthesia: Comfort is our top priority. We use specialized local anesthetic techniques to ensure the procedure is pain-free, and our highly trained team monitors your comfort throughout.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The infected pulp is removed from inside the tooth, and the space is carefully cleaned and shaped to prevent reinfection.
- Filling and Sealing: After cleaning, we fill the root canal with a biocompatible material to support the tooth’s structure. The tooth is then sealed to prevent future infection.
Following the procedure, many patients report relief from pain and are pleased to return to their daily routines shortly after treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My dentist recommended a root canal, but they said they can do it themselves. I want to see a specialist—what should I do?
A: It’s completely reasonable to prefer specialized care for root canal treatment, and at Perry Endodontics, we welcome you directly as a patient, even without a referral. You are your own best advocate for your dental health, and you have the right to select the provider with whom you feel most comfortable and confident. Our endodontists have advanced training and expertise, allowing us to focus exclusively on root canal treatments and related procedures to achieve the best possible outcomes. We encourage you to have an open conversation with your dentist about your preferences, as our goal is to support your comfort and provide specialized, efficient care that benefits all involved.
Q: What if my root canal was already started by someone else? Can I still come and see you?
A: Absolutely. It’s common for patients to be referred to us mid-treatment, especially when complications arise. However, it’s always best to seek specialist care before any complications occur. Our experienced team can evaluate your current treatment, identify any issues, and determine the best course of action to complete your procedure with minimal discomfort and maximum success.
Q: I’ve had a bad experience with a root canal in the past. Why would the experience at Perry Endodontics be any different?
A: At Perry Endodontics, we understand that past experiences with root canals can shape how patients feel about future treatments. Our endodontists are specialists focused exclusively on root canals and related procedures. With advanced technology, highly specialized training, and a commitment to patient comfort, we aim to provide an experience that is as smooth and comfortable as possible. Many of our treatments are completed in a single visit, and we take every measure to ensure a comfortable experience and successful outcome.
Q: How long will the root canal procedure take?
A: At Perry Endodontics, we strive to complete most root canal treatments in a single visit, often in about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case. For more complex cases, such as retreatments or multi-canal teeth, a second appointment may be needed. We’ll discuss the expected duration with you during your consultation so you can plan accordingly.
Q: Will I feel pain during or after the root canal?
A: Our priority is ensuring a pain-free experience. We use specialized local anesthetic techniques to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Afterward, some mild soreness may occur, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and should subside within a few days. Our team will provide post-treatment instructions and be available for any questions.
Q: I’m nervous about the procedure. What options do you have for anxious patients?
A: We understand that dental anxiety is common. Our team is experienced in managing patient comfort, and we offer additional relaxation techniques, including calm, private treatment rooms and compassionate, personalized care. Feel free to let us know your concerns; we’re here to help you feel at ease every step of the way.
Q: What should I do if I think my root canal has failed?
A: If you’re experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or discomfort in a tooth that’s already undergone root canal treatment, it’s important to consult with an endodontist. At Perry Endodontics, we specialize in endodontic retreatment and can assess whether additional treatment or an alternative approach is needed to restore your tooth’s health.
Q: How long will my tooth last after a root canal?
A: With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime. Maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular dental checkups, and getting a crown or restoration on the treated tooth are key steps to ensuring its longevity.
Q: Do I need a crown after a root canal?
A: In many cases, yes. A crown provides additional support and protection for a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment, especially for molars and premolars that withstand strong biting forces. Your general dentist will usually place the crown, and we can coordinate closely with them to ensure your tooth receives the appropriate restoration.
Why Perry Endodontics’ Expertise Matters
Our endodontic care at Perry Endodontics includes an emphasis on managing the root canal health of the tooth. This expertise allows us to manage complex cases that may involve both the root canal system and the surrounding bone and tissues, offering solutions that aim to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. With our specialized training and advanced technology, we provide effective treatment that supports the health of the entire tooth and surrounding areas.
Whether you need a standard root canal, retreatment, or management of a complex case, Perry Endodontics is fully equipped to provide the specialized, pain-free care you deserve. Trusting a specialist for your endodontic needs can lead to a faster recovery, fewer complications, and greater success in saving your natural teeth.
Call Perry Endodontics Today
Dr. Elizabeth Shin Perry is a distinguished specialist in the field of endodontics, practicing in Westfield since 1995. She is Board Certified through the American Board of Endodontics. With a faculty appointment at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, she lectures and instructs in the Advanced Graduate Endodontic Program. Dr. Perry is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine cum laude from Harvard, and holds a postdoctoral Certificate in Endodontics from the University of Connecticut. Dr. Perry's leadership extends to her role as Treasurer on the Executive Committee of the American Association of Endodontists, with past service as District I Director.
Dr. Kelly Barbera is a leading endodontic specialist and one of the few Board Certified Endodontists in Western Massachusetts. She graduated Cum Laude from Boston College before earning her D.M.D. as Valedictorian at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she also completed her postdoctoral Certificate in Endodontics. Dr. Barbera holds a faculty appointment at Tufts, where she lectures and instructs in the Advanced Graduate Endodontic Program and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics.