Root Canal & Endodontics in Woodstock

What Is a Root Canal?

Root canals are procedures that are performed in cases where the soft pulp that exists inside of your tooth becomes severely infected, injured or exposed because of advanced tooth decay. This can be incredibly painful and can negatively impact your life. Root canals, also known as endodontic treatment, remove the affected pulp from the tooth, permanently relieving you of any pain that you have been feeling and restoring your dental health.

When Are Root Canals Necessary?

A root canal is usually necessary once pulp tissue has become seriously infected or damaged. This is because the pulp cannot repair itself. In these cases, a root canal procedure is required to save the tooth. You may be in need of this routine surgical procedure if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Moderate to severe tooth pain that persists
• Teeth that are sensitive to cold, heat or touch
• Tooth pain that wakes you up during the night
• Pain whenever you bite down
• Advanced cavities or tooth discoloration
• Swollen gum tissue around the tooth

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important that you call a dentist immediately. Our dentists are highly experienced in performing root canals. Pick up the phone today and book your appointment so you can find out if you are in need of this treatment.

Who Does Root Canals?

Root canals can be performed by a general dentist or a dental specialist called an endodontist. An endodontist is typically consulted in cases that are deemed to be complicated or in instances where the teeth need to be re-treated. If you need an experienced root canal dentist, contact our office today. We will get you scheduled with one of our qualified dental care providers as soon as possible.

What Is the Procedure for a Dental Root Canal?

Most root canals can be performed within one or two hours. If your case is a more complicated one, it may take a little longer than that for your procedure to be completed. All root canals consist of these steps:

1. The dentist completely numbs the tooth and the area surrounding it so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
2. Your tooth is isolated with the use of a small shield. This also keeps the area around the tooth clean throughout the surgery.
3. An opening is made within the crown of the tooth so that the dentist can access the pulp chamber.
4. The pulp is taken out of the tooth. Special instruments are then utilized to clean out and shape the root canals.
5. Your dentist places fluid into the open canals. This works to disinfect the canals and to remove any debris.
6. A rubbery substance called gutta-percha is used to fill the canals. The canals are then sealed.
7. A root canal crown is then placed onto the tooth. This assists in preventing the tooth from fracturing in the future.

Once your procedure has been completed, you will be given a set of instructions that you should follow in order to heal properly.

What Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of root canals varies depending on the damage that has been done to the tooth and the amount of preparation that is required beforehand to get the tooth ready for the procedure. The number of roots that are present within the tooth also impacts the cost. For instance, front teeth only have one root, which means that a procedure for a front tooth will be cheaper than the procedure for a molar, which has four roots. The amount you will pay will also be determined by whether you are having the procedure done by a general dentist or by an endodontist. Check with your dental insurance provider to determine how much of your procedure will be covered. Our staff can provide you with an estimate of the cost of your treatment once you have undergone a thorough examination. Contact us today to book your appointment.

Are There Different Types of Root Canals?

Standard root canals are usually done on molars, but they can be an effective treatment option for any tooth. An alternative to standard root canals is an apicoectomy. This is where the tip of the tooth’s root is removed. It is usually done in cases where a patient has had an unsuccessful prior treatment. Another alternative is a pediatric pulpotomy. This is where the diseased pulp is removed and the nerve is left intact.

What Else Can You Tell Me About Dental Root Canal Treatment?

Many of our patients are concerned because they have heard that root canals are painful. You can rest assured that this rumor is untrue, as our practice utilizes an anesthetic to ensure that you remain comfortable throughout your entire procedure. If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, don’t wait any longer. Contact us today to make your appointment for getting a root canal in Woodstock.