Saving Your Smile
During a root canal procedure, the soft tissue inside the tooth, called the pulp, is removed, and the empty space is filled with medicated dental materials to restore the tooth’s function. This treatment not only saves your natural tooth, extending its lifespan but also helps maintain the health of the jawbone and surrounding tissues. Keeping your natural tooth whenever possible can also prevent future pain and reduce costs.
Signs that you may need root canal therapy include:
- Reaction to hot or cold temperatures.
- Intense pain in the affected tooth.
- Red or swollen gums around the problematic area.
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth.
- An abscess or small bump appearing on the gum.
Setting Up A Treatment Plan
A root canal procedure typically requires one or two visits to the office and can be performed by either a general dentist or an endodontist. Here’s an overview of the process:
Diagnosing You
The process begins with an X-ray of the affected tooth and surrounding bone to pinpoint the source of your symptoms. Your specialist might prescribe antibiotics to reduce infection and inflammation. Pain caused by an abscess is often due to the pressure from swelling, which can contribute to discomfort. Addressing this swelling beforehand helps minimize discomfort during the procedure.
Starting The Procedure
At the start of the treatment, we gently numb the tooth, gums, and surrounding tissues to ensure you remain comfortable throughout. Once you’re at ease, we create an opening in the tooth and carefully remove the pulp, bacteria, damaged nerve tissue, and other debris.
Sealing It Up
To fully eliminate infection, medication may be placed inside the tooth. If the treatment requires multiple visits, we use a temporary filling to protect the tooth. At this point, you should begin to feel relief. Once the tooth is completely clean and healthy, it is permanently sealed to restore its function.
The Cost Of A Root Canal In Wake Forest
The price of dental care can vary widely, but opting for a root canal can be a more economical choice over time. For those with insurance, out-of-pocket costs for this treatment typically range between $200 and $500 or more. After a comprehensive oral exam, we’re happy to provide a detailed estimate based on your insurance plan to help you understand your expected expenses. For patients without insurance, the cost generally falls between $600 and $1,200 or higher.
You may wonder why root canal costs vary so much. When determining the price, several factors are considered, including:
- The extent of the infection.
- The location of the affected tooth.
- The condition of the surrounding teeth and gums.
- Any complications requiring additional time or expertise.
Providing an exact quote over the phone is difficult because every case is different. That’s why it’s important to meet with a dentist who can evaluate your situation and explain your treatment options in detail.
Best Alternatives
An infected or abscessed tooth is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Root canals are highly effective in eliminating infections that could otherwise spread and cause significant health risks. Addressing the problem early helps you avoid more complex and invasive procedures. Our goal is to provide root canal treatment with a focus on your comfort and care, while helping to change any negative perceptions you may have about the procedure.
If you think you might have an infection but are unsure about root canal therapy, we encourage you to contact us. We will fully explain the procedure, ensuring you understand and provide informed consent before proceeding. We’re also open to discussing alternative solutions to address the infection and prioritize your overall health and well-being.
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
Tooth damage requiring a root canal can result from deep cavities, physical trauma, nerve deterioration, a cracked or chipped tooth, or a loose crown or filling.
With advanced techniques, state-of-the-art technology, and a patient-focused approach, our experienced team ensures root canal treatments are typically free of pain and discomfort.
When a root canal becomes necessary, it’s because the tooth pulp and nerve have already begun to deteriorate. Antibiotics cannot fully heal the damaged tissue or prevent reinfection, making pulp removal the only safe and effective treatment.
A root canal typically requires one or two visits. The procedure duration depends on the complexity: straightforward cases generally take 30 to 60 minutes, while more complicated ones can take up to 90 minutes.
Coverage depends on your individual insurance plan. After a consultation, we can provide an estimate for you to submit to your insurance provider. We recommend prioritizing root canal treatment and encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns with us.
For molars and premolars, a dental crown is usually suggested after a root canal to protect the tooth. For front teeth, such as incisors and canines, a crown may not be necessary.
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