Root Canal & Endodontics in Cedarbrook

What Is a Root Canal?

Surgery for the root canals is prescribed for patients who have experienced an injury, infection, or exposure of the soft pulp tissue that is located inside of the tooth. While most people refer to these procedures as root canals, they are also known as endodontic treatments. No matter what you call it, this surgical procedure will rid you of tooth pain and keep your smile happy and healthy.

When Are Root Canals Necessary?

Seriously damaged or infected pulp will not be able to fix itself. If you want to keep your tooth and prevent further dental health issues, you will probably need to have a dental root canal performed. Are you wondering if you are in need of this procedure? If you are experiencing any of the following signs, you should seek out an appointment with a root canal dentist in Cedarbrook.

• A tooth that is highly sensitive to cold, touch, or heat
• A toothache that wakes you up when you are asleep
• Advanced cavities or tooth discoloration
• Moderate to severe tooth pain that remains persistent
• Swollen gum tissue around the affected tooth
• Pain when biting

What Kind of Dental Care Provider Does Root Canals?

If your case is a routine one, a regular dentist will be able to perform your root canal. However, if the issue is complicated or severe enough, you may be referred to an endodontist. An endodontist is a dentist who has additional training in issues that impact the soft tissue within the teeth. A consultation with one of our qualified dentists will determine where you should go to have your canal surgery completed. To schedule your first appointment, call our office.

What Will Happen During My Procedure?

Patients who are undergoing routine endodontic treatment can expect their procedure to last anywhere between one and two hours. During that time, a trained dentist will perform the following steps.

1. Anesthetic will be applied to the tooth so that you will remain comfortable and pain free throughout the surgery.
2. Your dentist will isolate the tooth with a shield that will also work to keep the area clean.
3. The crown of the tooth will be opened so that your dentist can get to the pulp chamber.
4. Dental instruments are used to remove the pulp. The root canals are then cleaned and shaped by your dentist.
5. A fluid is used to disinfect and remove any debris from the canals.
6. A rubbery substance that is known as gutta-percha is utilized to fill and seal the canals.
7. The dentist will place a cap on the tooth. This root canal crown will keep the tooth from fractures.

Can I Afford a Root Canal?

You may be worried about how you will afford your surgery. The overall root canal cost will depend on how severe the damage is to your tooth and what steps are needed to get the tooth ready for the procedure. Whether you need to see a general dentist or an endodontist for your surgery will also impact your final costs. In addition, the number of roots in the tooth being worked on will also play a part in the total amount you will owe. Since a front tooth only has one root, it is less expensive than working on a molar, which has four roots. If you have dental insurance, you will need to contact your provider to determine how much of your surgery will be covered by your insurance plan. Once we have evaluated the status of your dental and oral health, our dentists will be able to provide you with an estimate. Contact us right away to schedule your consultation and to discuss payment options with our staff.

What Types of Root Canals Are Available?

Did you know that there were different types of root canals? The most common type is typically done on the molars, but can also be done for any of the teeth. Alternatives to standard endodontic treatments include apicoectomy and pediatric pulpotomy. Pediatric pulpotomy is where the pulp is removed and the nerve is left in place. Apicoectomy is where the tip of a tooth’s root is taken out after an unsuccessful treatment.

Does a Root Canal Procedure Hurt?

Root canals are always performed under local anesthetic. This means that you won’t be able to feel any pain. You will also be given pain medication to help you manage pain that may occur after the surgery. Our friendly team is ready to help you fix any issues that are causing you pain. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you feel better.