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A tooth that is causing you sharp pain, whether it is when you bite down or drink something either hot or something cold, needs immediate help. And if it turns out to be a particularly stubborn infection, it may require an endodontist, a specialist we have on our team at [OFFICE].
Endodontists specialize in root canal therapy involving the soft inner tissue of the tooth, known as the pulp. The word “endodontic” is rooted in “endo,” which means inside and “odont,” which means tooth.
Endodontists receive two or more added years of advanced education in this type of treatment after they have already received their first dental degree. They study root canal techniques and procedures in great detail to diagnose and treat more difficult cases. General dentists will refer their patients to endodontists when necessary.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
A root canal treatment, also referred to as root canal therapy, is used to eliminate infection from the pulp of a tooth. The pulp area is the space inside a tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and other cellular structures. It stretches from the center of the tooth down through the roots. Root canals are a widely used method to preserve teeth and save them from extraction.
Contrary to what you may have heard in the past, a root canal is not painful. It eliminates pain. Call our root canal doctor at [OFFICE] today at [PHONE_LINK] to see if such treatment is needed to eliminate your toothache and save the natural tooth.
When Is a Root Canal Needed?
The hard, covering of the tooth is the enamel. When the white enamel becomes cracked, chipped, or severely decayed, the pulp of the tooth can become infected. The best way to eliminate the infection and save the tooth is for an endodontist to perform a root canal. These symptoms may be a sign that you need a root canal:
- Severe tooth pain
- Deep cavity
- Dental pain that interrupts your sleep
- Sharp pain when biting
- Extreme sensitivity to touch, heat, or cold
- Severe swelling of the gums around the tooth
- Tooth discoloration, such as black, grey, or yellow spots
A toothache can occur suddenly. If you need help getting out of pain, call today for a root canal consultation.
What should I expect from a root canal treatment?
Modern dentistry makes getting a root canal about as comfortable and convenient as getting a filling. In most cases, the procedure takes about an hour or two to complete. Our team is dedicated to making sure you’re relaxed and pain-free through the procedure.
The root canal process typically includes these steps:
- Our endodontist will numb the tooth to prevent any pain.
- An opening is made in the crown of the tooth to let the endodontist access the inner pulp.
- The doctor uses special tools to remove the infected pulp, disinfect the area, and shape the root canals.
- The endodontist will fill the canals with a special substance and then seal the tooth.
- During a future appointment, your general dentist will place a permanent crown to protect the tooth from fracturing.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
The cost of your root canal treatment in [CITY] depends on how intricate the procedure is. Depending on the type of tooth, it may have one, two, three, or four canals. A root canal on a front tooth is less expensive than a root canal on a molar, because molars have more root canals. The root canals can be very small.
Most types of dental insurance will cover a portion of the cost of the root canal treatment. To find out what your estimate will be, call our office at [PHONE_LINK] to schedule a consultation.
What Should I Expect After a Root Canal?
Once a root canal and crown are complete, the tooth is restored to its normal functionality. Because the tooth did not have to be extracted, it’s easier to chew, speak, and smile. Best of all, the toothache and infection are gone.
Teeth restored through root canal treatment generally last for a very long time when maintained with proper dental hygiene. Call [OFFICE] today to learn how a root canal treatment could help you.
CareCredit
CareCredit is a healthcare credit card designed for your health and wellness needs. Pay for the costs of many treatments and procedures through convenient monthly payments.
