Helping Save Your Natural Teeth
In a root canal procedure, the pulp, which is the living tissue inside the tooth, is extracted and the resulting void is filled with specialized, medicated dental materials that restore the tooth’s full functionality. Opting for root canal therapy not only preserves your natural tooth, prolonging its lifespan, but it also safeguards and maintains the jawbone and other supporting tissues around the tooth. Whenever feasible, preserving your natural tooth can also spare you from future discomfort and expenses.
Several indicators suggest the potential necessity of root canal therapy, including:
- Sensitivity to both hot and cold temperatures.
- Intense toothache pain.
- Redness or swelling of the gums adjacent to the affected tooth.
- Discoloration of the tooth.
- The presence of an abscess or pimple on the gum tissue.
The Root Canal Process
Typically, a root canal procedure necessitates one or two visits to the dental office and can be carried out by either a dentist or an endodontist. The following outlines the steps involved in performing your root canal:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
The initial step involves taking an x-ray of the affected tooth and the surrounding bone to diagnose the underlying cause of your symptoms. Your healthcare professional might recommend antibiotics to manage infection and reduce inflammation. The discomfort associated with an abscess is often due to the pressure from infected swelling, and addressing this inflammation beforehand eliminates this source of discomfort during the root canal procedure.
Prepping The Tooth
When we are prepared to initiate the root canal procedure, we will take the time to thoroughly numb the area, ensuring that your gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues are completely numbed for your comfort and peace of mind. Once you are at ease, we will create an access opening in the tooth by drilling. Subsequently, we will extract the pulp, along with any bacteria, decayed nerve tissue, and associated debris.
Sealing Up The Tooth
The extent of the abscess’s severity will determine whether we need to introduce medication into the tooth to thoroughly eradicate any infection. In cases where the procedure spans multiple visits, we will place a temporary filling. By this stage, you should already experience some relief. The permanent sealing of your tooth only occurs once it is completely cleaned and restored to a healthy state.
Cost Of A Root Canal In Breslau
The cost of dental treatment can vary significantly, but opting for a root canal procedure is generally more cost-effective in the long term. With a typical insurance plan, root canal therapy typically carries an average out-of-pocket expense ranging from approximately $200 to $500 or more. Following a comprehensive oral examination, we would be delighted to furnish you with a precise quote tailored to your insurance coverage, allowing you to ascertain your actual out-of-pocket expenditures. In the absence of insurance, you can anticipate costs ranging from approximately $600 to $1200 or more for the treatment.
Why is there such a wide range in cost estimates? When we calculate a quote for root canal therapy, we take into account various factors, such as:
- The severity of the infection.
- The location of the infection within your mouth.
- The overall health of the adjacent teeth and gums.
- Any potential complications that might necessitate additional time or the expertise of a skilled practitioner.
It is important to note that no dental practice can provide an exact quote over the phone. Each case is unique, so it is crucial to consult with a dentist who can assess your individual situation and present you with all available treatment options for your consideration.
Is there an alternative treatment to root canals?
An abscess or infection within your tooth poses a significant health risk and is considered an urgent medical concern. Many individuals view root canals as a somewhat less favorable option to alleviate severe dental pain. However, it’s vital to recognize that beyond pain relief, root canals eliminate an infection that has the potential to spread and become life-threatening, necessitating far more urgent and invasive interventions. This is why we are dedicated to dispelling any negative perceptions associated with root canal therapy and why your comfort and peace of mind are paramount to us.
If you suspect you have an infection and are hesitant about undergoing a root canal, we strongly urge you to contact us nonetheless. We will not proceed with any procedure without your full comprehension and consent, and we may have alternative treatment options available, all with the overarching objective of resolving your infection.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Damage can occur due to deep decay, trauma, dead nerve, a loose filling or crown or a crack or chip in the tooth.
Due to advancements in contemporary techniques, technology, and a compassionate dental approach, our expert team of dentists and hygienists can administer root canal treatments that are virtually painless or involve minimal discomfort.
Once you recognize the need for a root canal, it’s important to understand that the decay of your tooth pulp and nerve has already commenced. This infected tissue cannot fully recover and is susceptible to reinfection. The sole secure course of action is the removal of the pulp.
Typically, a root canal procedure entails one or two visits to our office. Simple or minor root canal cases are typically completed within approximately 30 to 60 minutes of treatment, while more complex cases may require an extended duration, usually around 90 minutes.
The cost varies depending on your insurance coverage. Following a consultation, we can supply you with an estimate that you can submit to your insurance provider. We highly recommend prioritizing a root canal treatment. If you have any concerns or reservations, please don’t hesitate to discuss them with us.
Usually, dental crowns are necessary following a root canal for your posterior grinding teeth, including molars and premolars. For front teeth, such as canines and incisors, a dental crown may not be necessary.