Non Surgical Root Canal

What is a root canal? A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for dental implants or bridges.

At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels, nerves and other tissues that help to build the surrounding tooth. Infection or inflammation of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection or inflammation can be identified as visible swelling of the soft tissues, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.

How is a root canal performed? If you experience any of the above symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend a root canal treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. The injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be able to return to your normal routine.

What happens after treatment? When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up filling and restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.

How much will it cost? The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth. Your doctor will discuss endodontic fees with you. You may call our office for an estimate for your tooth.