For many people, the idea of root canal therapy can provoke some anxiety and uncertainty.
However, root canal treatment is safe, effective, and common — it’s estimated that 15 million root canals are performed in the United States every year. Let’s take a closer look at this common treatment. When is it needed? How can it save a tooth from extraction? And what should you expect from the procedure?
What is a Root Canal?
The root canal itself is actually a part of your tooth. It’s the pulpy inner chamber of your teeth that houses a network of blood vessels and nerve cells. While your teeth are developing, the root canal helps nourish the root of your teeth.
When your dentist recommends root canal therapy, this means that they will remove any infected pulp from the root canal of your tooth, then use a filling to seal the space.
Why Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
A root canal is often needed when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. Once the tooth’s pulp is seriously damaged, a root canal is the only method that will fix the problem. By having root canal therapy, you can avoid an extraction and keep your natural tooth.
Often, people need root canal therapy in these situations:
- Decay in the tooth that exposes the pulp
- Trauma, chips, or cracks in the tooth
- Broken crown that allows bacteria into the tooth’s pulp
Signs you Might Need a Root Canal
When your pulp is damaged, you’ll often have some symptoms which alert you a root canal might be necessary:
- Pain in tooth or surrounding gums
- Extreme tooth sensitivity to both heat and cold
- Swelling and redness in gums
- Darkening or discoloration of tooth
Make sure to see a dentist right away if you experience any of these signs, so you can get the treatment you need!
What Can I Expect from the Procedure?
When it comes to a root canal, here are some of the steps you can anticipate during the procedure:
- Before beginning, your dentist will give you anesthesia to numb the area
- An opening is made in the tooth
- The dentist carefully removes the pulp, then thoroughly cleans out the root canal with special instruments
- Once the space is cleaned, the dentist will insert a special filling material to fill the empty space
- You might get a temporary filling to seal the space at first
After the appointment, you might be asked to come back in to have your temporary crown removed and a permanent crown put in its place.
What is the Cost of a Root Canal?
The cost of a root canal will vary based on your dentist’s rates, the tooth that’s receiving the root canal, and if you’re getting a crown to cover the finished root canal. In general, a root canal treatment will cost between $500-2000. A crown will cost between $500-3000.
It’s a good idea to talk your dental team so that you have a better idea of what to expect. Some dental offices will help you finance any work that you need. In addition, you should check if your dental insurance will help cover a portion of the costs.
Aftercare & Pain Management
Your dentist will send you home with instructions after your appointment. For a little while, you may experience some pain or soreness. Take the medication your dental team recommends, and make sure to monitor for any severe pain or swelling that could indicate you need further treatment.
Compassionate Root Canal Treatment at Smiles by Design
At Smiles by Design, we offer professional, compassionate services — including root canal therapy — to patients in the general Syracuse, NY, area. If you’re ready to make an appointment, please contact us today.