root canals
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure designed to repair and save a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. During the procedure, the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth is carefully removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the tooth is then filled and sealed to prevent further infection. This allows you to retain your natural tooth and restore its function and appearance.
Why do I need a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment is essential for individuals experiencing severe tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. By addressing these symptoms promptly, you can prevent the spread of infection and preserve your natural tooth. Choosing to undergo a root canal empowers you to take control of your dental health, ensuring long-term comfort and functionality. Remember, prioritizing your oral care enables you to maintain a healthier, happier smile for years to come.
Endodontist
Dr. Ryan Teahen
​Dr. Ryan Teahen was born and raised in Iowa. He attended the University of Iowa for his undergraduate and dental school education earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2013. After graduation, he completed a one-year fellowship in general dentistry in Boston, Massachusetts at a community health center. He practiced general dentistry for two years primarily in Chicago, while concurrently working with a pediatric mobile outreach clinic serving at-risk neighborhoods. It was during this time that Dr. Teahen found his passion for endodontics. He then returned to the University of Iowa for a two-year advanced education program and earned his specialty certificate in endodontics in 2018.
along the lakefront trail.
During his time at the University of Iowa, Dr. Teahen earned the Dean's Student Leader Award in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, recognizing his leadership within the college, the Practice Management Award in 2013 for his excellence in the treatment he provided to patients during dental school, and the American Association of Public Health Dentistry Award in 2013 for his achievement in community dentistry and dental public health.
Dr. Teahen is a board certified endodontist, a member of the American Association of Endodontists and the American Dental Association. He enjoys participating in dental outreach initiatives both locally and abroad- including service trips to Jamaica, India and Ghana. In his free time, you'll likely find Dr. Teahen enjoying the outdoors, running, skiing, or biking along the lakefront trail.
What makes an Endodontist different from a General Dentist?
Endodontists undergo 2-3 years of additional education in an advanced specialty program after completing four years of dental school. Their focus is on studying diseases of the dental pulp and how to treat them. By limiting their practice to endodontics, they specialize in treatments of the dental pulp, their expertise is in diagnosing and treating tooth pain, often identifying the causes of oral and facial pain that are difficult to diagnose.
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They are also experts in pain management, using specialized techniques to ensure patient comfort, especially for those who have difficulty getting numb. In addition to providing pain relief during treatments, endodontists help patients feel better by addressing the underlying pulp infection or inflammation, which heals after a root canal.
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Endodontists use cutting-edge technologies like dental dams to isolate teeth, digital radiographs, 3D imaging, and dental operating microscopes to view and treat the tiny root canals and infections. These tools help them see details of tooth anatomy that are not visible with the naked eye, ensuring thorough and successful treatments.
