Non-Surgical Root Canals
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a non-surgical procedure that treats infection in a tooth by removing the diseased pulp from inside the tooth.
Inside each tooth is a root canal that is filled with pulp, which is composed of blood vessels that help build and nourish the tooth from the inside out. The pulp can become infected due to trauma or injury, advanced tooth decay, chips or cracks, or prior dental procedures. Symptoms of infection may include:
- Visible injury or inflammation of the tooth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Pain in the tooth and surrounding gum tissue
- Pain when chewing
Root canal therapy is among the most frequently performed procedures in the field of dentistry today, with well over 14 million procedures performed yearly. A root canal treatment can save your natural teeth and help you avoid the need for costly dental implants and/or bridges.
What happens during a root canal procedure?
The procedure removes the diseased pulp from the tooth, thoroughly cleaning and sealing the root canal. The treatment is generally performed using local anesthesia and we can provide nitrous oxide as well if you request it. Depending on the extent of your treatment, the procedure may be completed in one or more treatment sessions
About 90% of root canal procedures succeed at eliminating infection; however, some patients are not good candidates for endodontic treatment. Dr. Harding will be happy to evaluate your condition and recommend the most suitable treatment in your case.
What can I expect following a root canal treatment?
Once the procedure is completed and the anesthesia wears off, you will be able to drive home. Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately following the treatment.
Once the procedure is completed, Dr. Harding will begin the restoration required to protect your tooth. In most cases, the tooth will be covered with a ceramic or porcelain crown, which not only stabilizes and strengthens the tooth but also protects the tooth from further decay.
How much does a root canal cost?
Because the extent of work required may vary from patient to patient, the cost of a root canal procedure will also vary, depending on such factors as which tooth is affected, and the extent of the damage. Typically, a root canal treatment will cost far less than the alternative of extracting the tooth and replacing it with a dental implant.
Our friendly staff will be happy to provide further information on root canal treatment and cost. Contact our office today to learn more.