What is a root canal?

A root canal is a procedure that removes decayed nerve tissue from inside a tooth.

The damage to the tooth is caused by bacteria or deep decay. The root canal procedure allows the infected nerves to be removed and the empty tooth space to be filled.

How is a root canal performed?

A root canal is performed under local anesthesia. The dentist will access the tooth, remove the infected nerve tissue, and shape the canals inside the tooth. After that, the dentist will fill the canals with gutta percha, seal the tooth, and place a crown over the tooth to provide extra protection.

Benefits of a root canal procedure.

Root canal treatment has a number of benefits. If your tooth is infected, the decay can slowly spread and can even reach the jawbone. This is the worst-case scenario. If this occurs, your dental professional may recommend a tooth extraction. However, a root canal treatment can save the tooth by treating the infected pulp. This treatment will also prevent the infection from spreading so you avoid the need for tooth extraction.

When should you get a root canal?

If your teeth are infected or damaged, a root canal may be the best option for you. Root canal treatments are used to help remove infected or damaged pulp from a tooth. A root canal treatment helps to prevent future infections, tooth decay and tooth pain.

If left untreated, a root canal infection can lead to more serious oral health problems. Root canal infections can even affect your overall health.

What happens after a root canal procedure?

Patients report that getting a root canal is a more uncomfortable treatment compared to getting a dental crown.

However, patients can typically return to work or school the day after their procedure. That’s because getting a root canal is less involved than getting a dental crown, which requires the dentist to remove a significant amount of healthy tooth structure.

Alternatives to a root canal procedure.

Your dentist may recommend a root canal procedure if your tooth is severely infected and cannot be treated with a dental filling. A root canal treatment can save your natural tooth, so it is usually preferable to extraction.

However, in some cases, tooth extraction could be a better option than root canal treatment.

If your tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, a root canal treatment may not be effective. In these situations, your dentist may remove the damaged tooth and perform a dental implant procedure to permanently replace the tooth.

How much does a root canal cost?

The cost for root canal treatment depends on several factors. Your individual plan will include fees for the root canal treatment, any necessary x-rays, and any follow-up visits.

Generally, a root canal will cost between $500 and $1,500.

After your root canal, you will need to return to our office for a permanent crown. The cost of the crown will depend on what type of material you select.

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Many patients who visit our practice are interested in knowing more about root canal treatment. A root canal is a dental procedure that removes the infected tissue from inside the tooth. This tissue is replaced with a dental filler, and the tooth is restored with a dental crown.

Why do you need a root canal?

A root canal is necessary when the pulp of the tooth becomes infected. The pulp is the tissue that resides inside of the tooth and helps to keep it healthy. The pulp can become infected as a result of tooth decay or an injury.

When is root canal treatment recommended?

Root canal treatment is recommended when the pulp has become inflamed. When this occurs, the pulp will begin to die. As the pulp dies, it will begin to cause extreme sensitivity to hot and cold, and the tooth will begin to die off. In many cases, if the tooth is not treated, the tooth will be extracted.