What is a root canal?
Root canal therapy is one of the most common dental procedures performed. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of extractions, dental implants, or bridges.
At the center of every tooth is a hollow chamber and canal(s). This chamber and canal contain the pulp of your tooth. Pulp is a collection of nerves and blood vessels that help to build the surrounding tooth structure. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the pulpal infection (pulpitis) can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.
How is root canal therapy performed?
The injured or diseased pulp must be removed and the root canal system thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. The complexity of the root canal system, shape of the roots, or extent of disease may require a referral to a root canal specialist known as an endodontist.
Success for root canal treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not a good candidate for root canal treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine. Any pain or discomfort should subside after a few days.
What happens after root canal treatment?
Following root canal therapy the teeth often become more brittle. This usually requires us to re-build the core of your tooth and place some type of permanent restoration depending on your tooth (crown, onlay, or filling).You will setup an appointment for this follow-up restoration within a few weeks after the rooth canal treatment. It is important after any dental treatment to maintain good oral hygiene.
How much will it cost?
The cost associated with this procedure is based on several factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, a root canal and the permanent restoration following is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.