Saving Your Smile
In the process of a root canal procedure, the living tissue inside the tooth, known as the pulp, is extracted, and the resulting void is filled with specialized dental materials containing medication to restore the tooth’s full functionality. Utilizing root canal therapy not only preserves your original tooth, thus extending its lifespan, but it also safeguards and maintains the health of the jawbone and other supporting tissues surrounding the tooth. Whenever feasible, preserving your natural tooth can also prevent future discomfort and expenses.
Several indications may indicate the necessity for root canal therapy, including:
- Sensitivity to both hot and cold temperatures.
- Intense toothache pain.
- Redness or swelling of the gums in the vicinity of the affected tooth.
- Discoloration of the tooth.
- The presence of an abscess or a pimple on the gum.
Setting Up A Treatment Plan
In most cases, a root canal procedure involves one or two trips to the office and can be carried out by either a dentist or an endodontist. Let us walk you through the steps of how we perform your root canal:
Diagnosing You
The first step entails obtaining an x-ray of the affected tooth and the nearby bone to identify the root cause of your symptoms. Your specialist may recommend antibiotics to manage infection and inflammation. Pain associated with an abscess is often attributed to the pressure caused by the infected swelling, which can be a significant source of discomfort during a root canal. By preemptively reducing this inflammation, we eliminate this factor during the procedure.
Starting The Procedure
When it’s time to begin the root canal, we take the necessary steps to gently numb the area, including your gums, teeth, and tissues, ensuring your comfort and peace of mind throughout the procedure. Once you are comfortable, we create an access hole in the tooth and proceed to remove the pulp, bacteria, decayed nerve tissue, and other debris.
Sealing It Up
Depending on how severe the abscess is, we may introduce medication into the tooth to completely eliminate any infection. In cases where the procedure spans multiple visits, a temporary filling will be applied. You should already start feeling relief at this stage. The tooth can only be permanently sealed when it is entirely cleansed and restored to a healthy state.
The Cost Of A Root Canal In Wake Forest
The cost of dental treatment can vary significantly, but choosing a root canal procedure can prove more cost-effective in the long term. With a typical insurance plan, the out-of-pocket expenses for root canal therapy generally range from $200 to $500 or more. Following an oral examination, we would be delighted to provide you with a precise quote tailored to your insurance coverage, allowing you to determine your actual out-of-pocket expenses. For those without insurance, the treatment cost typically falls within the range of $600 to $1200 or more.
You might wonder why there’s such a wide range in cost estimates. When we calculate a quote for root canal therapy, we take various factors into account, including:
- The severity of the infection.
- The location of the infection within your mouth.
- The overall health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
- Any potential complications that may necessitate additional time or expertise.
It’s important to note that providing an accurate quote over the phone is challenging because every case is unique. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a dentist who can assess your specific situation and present all available treatment options for your consideration.
Best Alternatives
An abscess or tooth infection is a serious health concern that demands immediate attention. While some may view root canals as a less desirable option to alleviate severe dental pain, it’s essential to recognize that root canals effectively eliminate infections that can potentially spread and become life-threatening. Addressing such infections promptly can help avoid more urgent and invasive procedures. We are dedicated to dispelling any negative perceptions associated with root canal therapy and prioritize your comfort and peace of mind.
If you suspect you have an infection but are hesitant about undergoing a root canal, we strongly encourage you to reach out to us. We never proceed with any procedure without ensuring you have a full understanding and providing your informed consent. We may also explore alternative options with the ultimate goal of resolving your infection effectively. Your health and well-being are our top priorities.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deep decay, trauma, nerve death, a loose filling or crown, or a tooth crack or chip are all potential causes of damage.
Thanks to a combination of modern techniques, technology, and a compassionate dental ethos, our highly skilled dentists and hygienists can offer root canal treatments that are often pain-free.
By the time you acknowledge the necessity of a root canal, the decay of your tooth pulp and nerve has already commenced. This infected tissue will not undergo full healing and is at risk of becoming infected again, making the removal of the pulp the sole safe course of action.
Root canal treatments usually involve one or two visits to the dental office. The duration of the procedure varies depending on the complexity: simple or minor cases typically take about 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases may extend to around 90 minutes.
The cost depends on your specific insurance coverage. After an initial consultation, we can supply you with an estimate for you to forward to your insurance company. We emphasize the importance of making a root canal a top priority. If you have any doubts or concerns, please don’t hesitate to discuss them with us.
For your back grinding teeth, specifically molars and premolars, a dental crown is typically recommended after a root canal. However, front teeth, such as canines and incisors, may not need one.
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