Root Canal & Endodontics in Springfield

Can You Tell Me More About Dental Root Canals?

Root canals are a commonly performed dental surgery that involves the removal of the soft pulp tissue that exists within a tooth. This removal becomes necessary when a patient has an injury or infection in the pulp. It is also necessary in instances where severe tooth decay has left the pulp exposed. Patients in need of root canals experience severe pain in the affected tooth until the problem is addressed via root canal surgery. This surgery is also known as endodontic treatment.

How Do You Know If You Need a Dental Root Canal?

There are a number of symptoms to look out for which indicate whether or not you need dental root canal treatment. These symptoms include the following.

• Moderate to severe tooth pain that is persistent
• A tooth that is sensitive to touch, cold or heat
• A toothache that is severe enough to wake you up at night
• Tooth pain when you bite down
• Advanced cavities or discoloration of the tooth
• Swelling gum tissue

It is important to note that severely damaged or infected pulp will not heal itself. It is imperative that you receive treatment as soon as possible in order to save your tooth.

Who Can Perform Root Canals?

A general dentist can perform any root canal that is not complex enough to require the specialized touch of an endodontist. An endodontist is a specialist in treating issues that have to do with the tooth’s pulp. They are usually consulted in cases where a patient has a complicated case or needs to have their teeth treated again. If you’re in need of a highly qualified root canal dentist, our team is here to help. All it takes is one phone call and we will have you connected with one of our skilled dentists in no time at all.

What Can I Expect During a Root Canal Procedure?

Standard endodontic treatments consist of several steps that usually take the dentist between one and two hours to complete. First, your dentist will numb the tooth and the area around the tooth so that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Second, he or she will place a shield around your tooth so that it remains isolated and clean. Third, a portion of the crown of the tooth is opened so that the pulp chamber can be accessed. Fourth, the dentist removes the pulp, followed by the canals being cleaned out and shaped. Fifth, the root canals are flushed with fluid to disinfect them and remove all debris. Sixth, gutta-percha a rubbery substance is used to fill the canal. Seventh, your tooth is capped with a root canal crown so that your tooth does not fracture.

Patients in need of extensive work may undergo procedures that take longer and that may involve additional steps.

How Much Will Your Root Canal Cost?

The costs you will incur will vary depending on the severity of your case and the amount of preparation needed for your tooth. Root canals are also priced according to the number of roots in the tooth. As an example, a molar has four roots. This makes endodontic treatment on a molar more expensive than treatment for a front tooth, which only has one root. Costs will also vary if you are in need of a specialist rather than a regular dentist. No matter what, you should check with your dental insurance provider to see what kind of coverage is provided for root canals. Contact us to learn more about how you can receive and estimate of the cost of your endodontic treatment.

Is There a Variety of Root Canals Available?

Were you aware that there are different types of root canals available? A standard root canal is used in most cases, especially in situations involving the molars. Typical endodontic treatment can also be used for other types of teeth. More advanced types of root canals include the apicoectomy and the pediatric pulpotomy. An apicoectomy involves the tip of the root being taken out, while a pediatric pulpotomy involves the pulp being removed and the nerve of the tooth being left inside of the tooth.

Is This Treatment Painful?

While many patients are afraid that root canals are painful, there is really nothing to be worried about. Most root canals make use of local anesthetic. This ensures that the area being worked on will be numbed and that you won’t feel a thing during your procedure. Pain medication for after the procedure is also available. If you believe that you are in need of endodontic treatment, don’t put it off any longer. Our compassionate team is ready to help your mouth live a pain-free life.