What is a Root Canal?

Endodontic therapy, commonly known as a root canal, is a treatment aimed at clearing infection from your tooth. Dr. Elbrecht, the dentist here at Advanced Dental Care of Indiana, safely performs root canal therapy to families and individuals in Anderson, Indiana. Do you have questions, concerns, or anxieties about getting a root canal? Here is everything you need to know!

How do you know if you need root canal treatments?

You may need to receive a root canal if you have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • A severe toothache
  • Increased sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Darkening or discoloration of your tooth
  • Swelling in the gums surrounding the infected tooth
  • Pimple-like bump on the gums

What is done in endodontic therapy?

Depending on your case, you may need more than one appointment. During your treatment, your Endodontist or general dentist will:

  1. Numb the affected area and create an opening leading to the pulp chamber
  2. Remove the infected pulp and prepare the root canal to be filled
  3. Fill the canal with a sealant and place a temporary filling to protect the tooth from contamination
  4. Prescribe antibiotics if the infection spread beyond the root canal
  5. Remove the temporary filling and place a crown or permanent filling (this step may be completed up to a week later)

Is getting a root canal painful?

It is a common belief that root canals are extremely painful and uncomfortable. But, despite the bit of discomfort throughout and after the procedure, large amounts of pain are not normal. In fact, most individuals tend to find relief after the treatment. Removing the infected pulp should ease most of the pain you felt before. If you do find that you are a bit tender or sensitive post-procedure, try taking some over-the-counter pain medications.

How much does a root canal cost?

The cost of a root canal varies depending on where in your mouth the infected tooth is located. Front teeth generally range from $300 to $1,500 whereas bicuspids cost anywhere from $400 to $1,800. Molars are a bit more expensive, usually ranging between $500 to $2,000. The difference in price is due to the fact that molars have two to three canals while the front teeth only have one. Don’t let the cost scare you. Most dental insurances cover root canals.

Need to see an Endodontist?

Root canals are treatments aimed to save your tooth, clear infection, and prevent any further damage. If you have signs of infection, don’t wait to see a dentist. You may need to have a root canal and putting it off could result in you losing your tooth entirely. If you are in the Anderson, Indiana area and need a root canal procedure, give us a call at (765) 622-7000.

Photo by Jonathan Borba from Pexels