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root canal

The best part about a root canal is that it can help save your natural tooth.

 
OVERVIEW
ROOT CANAL
 

What is a root canal?

Root canal treatment is a standard dental procedure that aims to save a tooth affected by infection or damage, preventing the need for extraction. The procedure involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp – a soft tissue containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue – from the innermost part of the tooth, and then filling the space with a suitable material. This treatment targets the tooth's root canal, a channel extending into the root that connects to the bone and gums, ensuring the tooth's stability and health.

Patient in chair with dentist
 

The Benefits of a Root Canal

 

Root canal treatment offers multiple benefits, including relieving severe toothache, preventing the spread of infection, and saving a tooth from extraction. By cleaning and sealing the infected pulp, this procedure restores the tooth's function, appearance, and overall health.

 

Save Your Natural Tooth

sparkly tooth and gums

Alleviate Tooth Pain

female under pain because of toothache

Keep Gums Healthy

sparkly tooth and gums

Reduce Sensitivity

a tooth that is very sensitive and in pain
 
Redhead woman smiling with eyes closed
 

How to Know if You Need a Root Canal

If you're experiencing persistent and severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling around the tooth, or a pimple-like bump on the gum, it could be an indication that you need a root canal. Additionally, if you notice discoloration of the tooth or if the pain worsens when you bite or apply pressure, it's advisable to consult a dentist. Only a thorough examination by a dental professional can confirm whether a root canal is necessary to address the underlying issue.

 

How long does a root canal take?
 

The duration of a root canal procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case. On average, a root canal can take about 1 to 2 hours to complete. However, multiple visits may be needed in some cases, and your dentist can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific situation.

Tooth needing root canal
 
 

Root Canal Procedure: Step by Step

Non-surgical root canal treatment is a relatively simple procedure that is usually completed in one or two visits. Here's an overview of what you can anticipate during your root canal procedure:

Numbing to Minimize Discomfort

The dentist will numb the area around your tooth with injections of a local anesthetic.

Prep

The dentist will then place a rubber sheet around your tooth. This helps the tooth stay dry during the procedure.

Beginning the Procedure

Next, they’ll make an opening in the top of your tooth.

Infected Tissue Removal

Using tiny tools, your dentist will carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp tissue.

Prepping the Root Canal

The dentist will shape and widen the root canals to prepare them for filling.

Flushing Debris Away

Before filling the root canal, your dentist will flush away any debris inside the tooth. Once the tooth is clean, they may apply medicine to eliminate bacteria from the root canals.

Filling the Root Canal

Next, the dentist will fill the root canals. Generally, dentists use adhesive cement and a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.

Temporary Filling

Finally, they’ll close the opening in the top of your tooth with a temporary filling. In some cases, it may be possible to place a permanent filling and complete the root canal in one visit. In others, a follow-up will be needed.

Follow-up Appointment

If a follow-up appointment is needed, this is when your dentist will remove the temporary filling and place a permanent filling or crown.

 
 

Root Canal Aftercare Guide

Root canal aftercare involves taking necessary steps to ensure proper healing and minimize discomfort after undergoing a root canal procedure. Following the treatment, you might experience mild soreness or sensitivity, which can be managed with prescribed pain relievers and over-the-counter medications. Practicing good oral hygiene by gently brushing and flossing, while avoiding the treated area, helps prevent infection. It's advisable to consume soft foods initially and gradually transition to a regular diet. Regular follow-up appointments with your dentist are crucial to monitor progress and determine if further restorative work, such as a crown, is needed to fully restore the tooth.

Illustrations of soft food
 
individual with beautiful teeth flossing in front of the mirror
 

Book an Appointment Today

 

Find a skilled Smile Generation-trusted dentist in your area who can perform root canal treatment with precision and care. Your healthier, happier smile awaits!

 

 
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How much does a root canal cost?

The cost of a root canal can vary depending on location of the tooth, the complexity of the case, and the dentist's expertise. On average, a simple root canal on a front tooth might cost between $300 to $1,500, while a root canal on a molar could range from $500 to $2,000 or more. The price might also include the cost of an X-ray, consultation, and follow-up visits. It's important to consult with a Smile Generation-trusted dentist and discuss the specifics of your case to get an accurate estimate of the cost. Dental insurance might also help cover a portion of the expenses.

 

Is getting a root canal painful?
 

Modern root canal procedures are relatively painless due to the use of local anesthesia, and any discomfort afterward can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your comfort is a priority throughout the procedure.

Illustration of a hand holding dollar bills on a green background
 
 

Got questions?

 

Have questions about root canals? We’ve got answers.

 
SEE ALL FAQS
 

If you have deep decay or the pulp is exposed to an infection, you might need a root canal. A root canal involves the removal of that pulp, which is the soft tissue inside of your tooth. This tissue provides your teeth nourishment and will need to be replaced if infected. Infection of the pulp is an issue that should be addressed as it can lead to significant pain, swelling, and abscess.

Decay, gum disease, and injury can lead to a necessary root canal. After removal, signs that you have an infection in your root canal include pain that does not get better, warmth around the tooth, and fever. While root canal infections after removal are not common, they do happen. So, if you have any of the symptoms listed above, it might be possible that bacteria got into the root canal. If this happens, follow up with your dentist.

 

Learn more in our blog article, "Root Canal Costs, Infections, and Eating."

Root canals can be complex, and when things are complicated, they usually get costly. Root canals typically involve multiple office visits and might require both a general dentist and an endodontist, increasing the cost. Where you live, how many visits are required, referrals needed, insurance, and severity of the infection will all fact into the cost of your root canal. Depending on the necessities, you might pay less than $1,000, but the price can add up quickly if it is not a straightforward procedure.

 

If you do not have insurance, look into the financing and insurance options available through the Smile Generation.

 

Learn more in our blog article, "Root Canal Costs, Infections, and Eating."

Just like a tooth extraction, you can eat a variety of soft foods and liquids such as mashed potatoes, ice cream, apple sauce, broths, and yogurt, to name a few. However, until you no longer have pain and swelling, you should stay away from hard or sticky foods.

 

Also, ensure you wait until the numbness wears off before eating anything, as you do not want to risk biting your tongue or cheek.

 

Learn more in our blog article, "Root Canal Costs, Infections, and Eating."

 
 

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Sources

Healthline. (n.d.). Root Canal: Procedure, Pain, and Recovery. https://www.healthline.com/health/root-canal

American Association of Endodontists. (n.d.). Root Canal Treatment: What Is a Root Canal? https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/what-is-a-root-canal/

American Association of Endodontists. (n.d.). Root Canal Explained: Everything You Need to Know. https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/what-is-a-root-canal/root-canal-explained/

NHS. (n.d.). Root Canal Treatment. http8s://www.nhs.uk/conditions/root-canal-treatment/