Saving your natural tooth
A root canal is a simple way to keep your natural tooth. By removing the damaged pulp and filling it with a medicated material, your tooth is restored to full function. Not only does this extend the life of your tooth, but it also protects the surrounding jawbone and tissues. Keeping your natural tooth helps you avoid more pain and expenses later on.
There are a number of signs that suggest root canal therapy may be necessary:
- Sharp sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Persistent tooth pain
- Swollen or red gums around the affected tooth
- Darkening or discolouration of the tooth
- A small bump or abscess on the gums
Your Root Canal Treatment Plan
Root canal treatment typically takes one or two visits and is done by a dentist or an endodontist. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
First, we’ll take an x-ray of your tooth and the surrounding bone to figure out what’s causing your symptoms. If there’s an infection, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics to bring down the swelling and control the infection. The pain from an abscess usually comes from the pressure of that swelling, which can make a root canal uncomfortable. By reducing the inflammation ahead of time, we can make the whole process smoother and a lot more comfortable for you.
Prepping the Tooth
When it’s time for the root canal, we’ll carefully numb the area to ensure you’re comfortable before freezing your gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues. Your comfort and peace of mind are our top priorities. Once you’re feeling at ease, we’ll drill a small access hole in the tooth to remove the pulp, bacteria, damaged nerve tissue, and any other debris.
Sealing the Tooth
Depending on the extent of the infection, we may place medication inside the tooth to ensure the infection is fully cleared. If the treatment spans multiple visits, a temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth in the meantime. By this stage, you should already feel some relief. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and healthy, we’ll permanently seal it to complete the treatment.
Cost of a Root Canal in Port Dover
The cost of a root canal can vary, but saving your natural tooth is a cost-effective solution in the long run. With typical insurance coverage, your out-of-pocket expenses may range from $200 to $500 or more. After a thorough exam, we can provide an accurate quote for your insurance company, so you’ll know exactly what your final costs will be. For those without insurance, the cost typically falls between $600 and $1200 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
Why is there such a wide ballpark estimate of the cost? When we generate a quote for root canal therapy we consider factors like:
- How severe the infection is
- Where the infected tooth is located in your mouth
- The condition of the surrounding teeth and gums
- Any complications that may need extra time or a more delicate approach
No dental practice can give a completely accurate quote over the phone because every case is different. It’s important to meet with a dentist who can take a closer look at your unique situation. This way, they can give you all the details and treatment options so you can make the best decision for your care.
Is there an alternative treatment to root canals?
An abscess or tooth infection is serious and can quickly become a health emergency. While many people see root canals as a necessary way to stop severe pain, they do much more than that—they eliminate infections that could spread and become life-threatening if left untreated. This is why we emphasize the importance of root canal therapy and are committed to changing its reputation. Your comfort and peace of mind are always our priority.
If you suspect an infection but are hesitant about getting a root canal, we still encourage you to contact us. We’ll take the time to explain all your options and won’t proceed with any treatment without your full understanding and consent. Our goal is to resolve the infection, and we may be able to offer alternative solutions to fit your needs.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Damage leading to a root canal can happen for several reasons, including deep decay, trauma to the tooth, a dead nerve, a loose filling or crown, or a crack or chip in the tooth.
With modern techniques and technology, along with a compassionate approach to dental care, our skilled team of dentists and hygienists can perform root canal treatments with little to no discomfort.
By the time a root canal is needed, the tooth’s pulp and nerve are already decaying. Antibiotics may help temporarily, but they won’t fully heal the infected tissue, which will likely get re-infected. Removing the damaged pulp through a root canal is the only safe and effective long-term solution.
A root canal usually requires one or two office visits. For simpler cases, the treatment typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases may take around 90 minutes.
Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan. After a consultation, we can provide you with an estimate to submit to your provider. Root canals are an important procedure, and we encourage you to prioritize your dental health. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to talk to us—we’re here to help.
In most cases, you’ll need a dental crown after a root canal on your molars and premolars, as these back teeth handle a lot of pressure when chewing. However, front teeth like canines and incisors may not require a crown. Your dentist will assess your specific needs and recommend the best option for you.
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