Root Canal Treatment

What is a root canal?

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.

At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.

If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. Root canal therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. Dr. Nielsen, Dr. Krajicek and Dr. Ferrante use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. In addition, we will provide nitrous oxide analgesia, if indicated. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.

Healthy Tooth

Tooth Anatomy

Inflammation

Cleaned Canals

Filling Placed

Healed Tooth

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.

How much will a root canal cost?

The cost associated with root canals can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.

Root Canal Therapy FAQs

What is root canal therapy?

Root canal therapy is a dental treatment used to save a tooth when the soft tissue inside it, called the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. During treatment, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the root canals are filled and sealed to help preserve the natural tooth.

Is root canal therapy painful?

Root canal therapy is performed using local anesthesia, so most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure. Some mild tenderness or sensitivity is normal for a few days afterward as the area heals.

What is the downside of a root canal?

A root canal can leave the treated tooth more vulnerable to damage, so a permanent restoration such as a dental crown may be recommended to protect it. Some patients also experience temporary soreness after treatment, and in some cases, a tooth may require additional treatment if infection persists or returns.

How long does a root canal procedure take?

The time of a root canal treatment depends on each patient and the severity of infection and decay. Most root canals take under an hour or up to 90 minutes. Typically, we complete them in one or two visits.