Get your smile back faster.

E

xperiencing tooth pain, gum swelling, or tooth sensitivity is enough to take the smile off of anyone's face. Many dental conditions can cause these symptoms, but one of the most common is trouble in the tooth's root canal.

As a root canal specialist, Elizabeth Wakim can help you identify where your pain and discomfort is coming from and treat it quickly and effectively. That way, you can spend less time in the dentist's chair and more time smiling.

FAQ

FAQ
shiny tooth

What causes root canal pain?

The root canal is a pulp-filled cavity deep inside a tooth. Usually, this part of the tooth is well-protected, but sometimes dental trauma, extreme tooth decay, or a tooth fracture can allow harmful bacteria into the root canal and cause infection. If the tissue in your root canal is unhealthy, becomes infected or inflamed, or dies, it can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort.

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How does root canal treatment work?

To treat damaged or infected tissue in the root canal, your dentist will start by administering anesthesia to numb the affected area. She can then make a small opening in the tooth, which allows her to access root canal with instruments called endodontic files. The endodontic files are used to clean the root canal of any unhealthy tissue and shape it to prevent further infection. A biocompactable material called gutta percha is used to fill the canals, preventing further bacteria, food particles, and other debris from entering and causing damage to the tooth. With the root canal itself treated, your dentist will restore the affected tooth with a crown.

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What can I expect from root canal recovery?

Thanks to modern anesthetics, having a root canal is typically a simple procedure and doesn't cause much more discomfort than an ordinary cavity filling. After the procedure, your mouth may remain numb for a few hours as the anesthetic wears off. You may experience some discomfort as you regain sensation in the area, but for most people pain or swelling is minimal and can be managed with over the counter painkillers. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help prevent infection, especially if you have a condition-- such as diabetes or a heart valve problem-- that may delay the healing process.

Never did I think that having a wisdom tooth pulled could be so much fun!
kasey rothermund
Pittsburgh, PA
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passion & precision

Learn Why We're The Top Rated Dentist in the Washington, PA

"Literally the best dentist in the area! The staff is wonderful and Dr. Wakim's entire practice is state of the art with cutting edge technology. The experience is always 5 star and my teeth have never been cleaner or whiter! Thank you for such a positive dental experience."

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What Our Patients Say ...

Testimonials

Best. Dentist. Ever!

State of the art office with a highly educated professional team. Everyone is so understanding and takes the time to make you comfortable. This is the office for you if you're not a fan of the dentist, you'll quickly forget that you're at a doctors office! It's so fun and relaxing! Highly recommend!

ashlee friedman

Wow. No Pain.

As an older patient and have had other dentists for years. Dr. Wakim and her staff have exceeded any experience I've had previously. Very supportive of the care and treatment that I'm in need of, with no pressure. I also have several family members who are her patients. Todays experience surprised me, I was to have a crown replacement and was accommodated with 2 other procedures, wow.

elizabeth scarborough

Glad I came

For someone who anxiety about dental work, this has been an amazing place for me. I had considered sedation dentistry, but I’m glad I came here instead. Dr. Wakim and the whole staff are so great!

heather martin

Comfortable Atmosphere

Dr. Liza is an exceptional dentist! She has repaired my front tooth and it is as good as the original! I love the comfortable atmosphere and friendly staff. Can't wait to go back to the dentist!

adam levitsky

Pain-free vacation

Dr. Wakim and her staff are fantastic!!! I had a tooth issue right before I was to leave on vacation and was beyond miserable. Dr. Wakim took care of me last minute on a holiday weekend and I was able to enjoy my vacation pain free. I am so grateful to have such a wonderful Dentist that cares about her patients. Thank you Dr. Wakim!!

wendy horne

All the latest equipment

Great dentist ! Very friendly and helpful staff ! All the latest equipment. Your choice of music. I've had extensive dental work done including, bridges, implants and crowns. They caught the beginnings of gingivitis today and treated it. I'm 100% satisfied !

judy hollick