Saving Your Tooth
During a root canal procedure, the dental pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth) is extracted, and the resulting void is filled with specialized, medicated dental materials that restore the tooth’s complete functionality. Employing root canal therapy not only preserves your natural tooth, prolonging its lifespan, but also safeguards and maintains the health of the jawbone and other supportive tissues surrounding the tooth. Whenever feasible, preserving your natural tooth can spare you from future discomfort and expenses.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
- Intense toothache pain.
- Redness or swelling of the gums near the affected tooth.
- Tooth discoloration.
- Presence of an abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
Several indications may point to the need for root canal therapy:
The Treatment Plan for Root Canals
Typically, a root canal treatment involves one or two visits to the dental office and can be performed by a dentist or an endodontist. Here is an overview of how we conduct a root canal procedure:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
The initial step involves taking an X-ray of the affected tooth and the surrounding bone to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. In some cases, your specialist may prescribe antibiotics to manage any existing infection and reduce inflammation. By addressing the swelling and infection beforehand, the discomfort associated with an abscess is alleviated, creating a more comfortable environment for the root canal procedure.
Preparation for the Tooth
Prior to commencing the root canal procedure, we take great care to ensure your comfort by thoroughly numbing the area and applying local anesthesia to freeze your gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues. Your well-being and tranquility are paramount to us. Once you are comfortable, we create an access hole by drilling into the tooth. Subsequently, the pulp, bacteria, decayed nerve tissue, and any other debris are meticulously eliminated from the tooth.
Sealing the Tooth
The severity of the abscess will determine whether medication needs to be placed inside the tooth to fully eradicate any infection. If the procedure is scheduled for multiple visits, a temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth in the interim. By this stage, you will likely experience some relief. The final step involves permanently sealing the tooth only when it is completely cleaned and restored to a healthy condition.
Cost Of Root Canals In Cypress
The cost of dental treatments can vary significantly; however, opting for a root canal to save the tooth tends to be more cost-effective in the long term. With a typical insurance plan, the average out-of-pocket cost for root canal therapy ranges from approximately $200 to $500 or more. Following an oral examination, we can provide you with a precise quote for your insurance company to determine your actual out-of-pocket expenses. Without insurance coverage, the cost of treatment can range from around $600 to $1200 or higher.
The wide range of cost estimates for root canal therapy is influenced by various factors that we consider when generating a quote. These factors include:
- 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 require additional time or a specialized approach from an experienced professional.
It’s important to note that an accurate quote for dental treatment cannot be provided over the phone. Each case is unique, and it is crucial to consult with a dentist who can assess your specific situation and present you with a comprehensive range of treatment options tailored to your needs.
Is there an alternative treatment to root canals?
An abscess or tooth infection is a serious health concern that requires immediate attention. Root canals are often perceived as a necessary step to alleviate severe dental pain. However, their significance goes beyond pain relief; they effectively remove infections that can potentially escalate into life-threatening conditions, necessitating more urgent and invasive treatments. Our dedication is to challenge the negative reputation associated with root canal therapy and prioritize your comfort and peace of mind.
If you suspect an infection but are hesitant about a root canal, we strongly encourage you to contact us regardless. We are committed to ensuring that no procedure is performed without your full understanding and consent. We may have alternative options available, all aimed at resolving the infection while considering your preferences.
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
With the aid of modern techniques, advanced technology, and a compassionate dental approach, our skilled team of dentists and hygienists can deliver root canal treatments with minimal to no pain experienced by patients.
Once you recognize the need for a root canal, the decay of your tooth pulp and nerve is already underway. This infected tissue cannot heal completely and is susceptible to reinfection. Removing the pulp is the only reliable and safe solution in such cases.
Damage to a tooth can result from various factors, including deep decay, trauma, a dead nerve, a loose filling or crown, or a crack or chip in the tooth.
Dental crowns are typically necessary following a root canal treatment for molars and premolars, which are the back grinding teeth. However, front teeth, including canines and incisors, may not always require a dental crown.
Typically, a root canal treatment can be completed within one or two office visits. Simple or minor root canal cases typically require approximately 30 to 60 minutes of treatment, while more complex cases may take longer, typically around 90 minutes.
The coverage for root canal treatment varies based on your insurance plan. After a consultation, we can offer you an estimate that you can submit to your insurance provider for review. We highly recommend prioritizing a root canal if needed. If you have any concerns or reservations, please don’t hesitate to discuss them with us.
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