Root Canals
Infections of the roots of the teeth can cause abscesses, extreme pain and swelling in the jaw. If you or any member of your family is experiencing these symptoms, the dentists at our dental practice can provide effective root canal treatment. It is essential not to delay your visit in cases of infection. If your teeth are left untreated, you may be at risk of developing a more widespread infection that could damage the bones in your jaw and adjacent teeth. In extreme cases, you may be putting your physical health at risk by neglecting your teeth. Our root canal dentists can provide you with proven solutions that can help you to protect your teeth and eliminate pain.
Your Root Canal Procedure
During your initial examination at our office, our dentists will determine the cause of your current issues. If inflammation and infection of the pulp of your tooth are to blame for your pain and swelling, we will work with you to determine the best solution to help you feel better more quickly. Our team of root canal specialists have the training and the proven experience required to achieve lasting results. We will take the time to explain all aspects of your root canal procedure before beginning your treatments. This can provide you with added confidence when receiving your dental care from our office.
What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?
Your root canal procedure generally begins with a thorough examination. Your dentist may recommend a course of antibiotics before beginning the root canal process, depending on the severity of your infection. The procedure usually includes the following steps:
- Your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to limit pain during your root canal procedure. For complex root systems or back teeth, you may need general anesthesia to ensure the most painless experience.
- Your tooth will then be isolated to ensure the most sterile and safe environment during the root canal process. This is usually accomplished using a dental dam or other dental tool.
- If a hole already exists in the tooth because of decay or previous damage, your dentist will widen and smooth out the opening to allow easy access to the inside of your tooth. For teeth that are intact from the outside, our dental team will drill a hole to the center of the tooth to allow safe extraction of infected tissue and nerve endings.
- Once a clear path into the center of the tooth has been created, your dentist may use advanced tools to examine the condition of tissues inside your tooth and to pinpoint the source of the problem. This can ensure the fastest resolution of the infection or inflammation inside your tooth. During this step, your dentist will also measure the length of the roots of your teeth.
- Specialized tools are used to clean out each of the roots and to remove nerves and infected tissue. The root canals left behind after cleaning are shaped and smoothed to prepare them to accept fillings.
- A rubber compound will be used to fill the empty space left behind after the removal of tissue and tooth pulp. A substance called gutta percha is usually used to seal off the canals and to fill all the nooks and crannies of your tooth to add structural support.
- A temporary or permanent filling will be applied to the tooth as the final step in your root canal.
- Your dentist may recommend a crown to provide added structural support for a fragile or severely damaged tooth.
Should I See a Root Canal Dentist or an Endodontist?
Endodontists specialize in treating the interiors of teeth and can provide added help in complex root canal cases. At our office, we are able to perform effective treatments for infections, inflammations and other issues. If you think you might need a root canal procedure, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment for an examine to determine the cause of your tooth pain. One of our general dentists may be able to perform your treatment at our office. Call us today to meet with one of our dental professionals and determine if you need a specialist to perform your root canal treatment.
How Much Does a Root Canal Treatment Cost?
The cost of a root canal can be significant. For patients who have dental insurance plans, some or all of the cost may be covered. Our team of dentists and administrative specialists will work with you to keep your out-of-pocket expenses as low as possible and to help you to manage the costs of your treatment in the most practical way possible.