Root Canal

Root Canl

A Root Canal Doesn’t Have to be Scary or Painful.

What is a Root Canal?

When a tooth becomes infected, that infection can spread into the center of the tooth. This area is called the dental pulp. Inside of the dental pulp is the nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. All of the sensitive areas of the tooth are contained here. When the area becomes infected, it can be incredibly painful, requiring immediate treatment. A root canal is necessary to eliminate the infection.

A Root Canal is One of the Most Common Dental Procedures Performed, Well Over 14 Million Every Year

Why Should I Get a Root Canal?

In the past, many people needed to have their teeth pulled if they became severely infected or the dental pulp became inflamed. Now, those same teeth can be saved by performing a root canal. This is a far better option because it keeps the natural tooth in place. This is important for the shape of the face because as teeth fall out the muscles in the face can start to sag. By treating and saving an infected tooth, we are helping to preserve our patients’ facial structure.

What is the Process?

A root canal endodontic procedure works by creating a small hole in the tooth to remove all of the infected areas. The dental pulp is removed, and frequently so are the roots. When needed, removing the roots can prevent the further spread of infection. Once done, we will clean the area to ensure the infection is gone. Depending on the infection, we can prescribe antibiotics to ensure that any lingering infection is eliminated. To complete the root canal, we will seal up the hole and area where the dental pulp used to be and choose a filling or crown to strengthen and protect the damaged tooth. Regardless of where your infected tooth is located, a crown can be blended in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a Root Canal?

The dentist will be able to determine if you need a root canal through an exam and x-ray. Symptoms that the pulp is infected include severe sensitivity to hot/cold or sweets, pain, swelling, pain to biting or pressure, and a bad taste in the mouth. Unfortunately, there are cases where a patient has no symptoms and is unaware of the problem until an x-ray shows that the pulp is infected. The infected pulp can cause a severe problem as well as continual pain. Dr. Rogers is happy to see any patient with serious pain at any time. As part of our family, we want you to be free of pain and have a healthy mouth.

Will it hurt?

We work to help patients to feel comfortable during their root canal endodontics procedure by using sedation dentistry. From oral medication, nitrous oxide, numbing agents, to even IV sedation, we have a variety of ways that we can eliminate both discomfort and anxiety during a root canal. Dr. Rogers is specially trained to use IV sedation to ensure the most comfortable procedure. We, at Rogers Center for Dentistry, take special care to provide painless dentistry and help patients enjoy their dental treatments.

Does a root canal always require a crown?

It all depends on the tooth. If the tooth is in good condition after a root canal, the dentist may opt to fill it and leave it be, especially if it is a front tooth. In almost all cases, the dentist will recommend that a crown be placed on a molar whose dental pulp has been removed. Tooth decay, as well as, having a large amount of dental tissue removed during a root canal, weakens a tooth. Combined, decay and a root canal will leave the tooth at risk of crumbling when subjected to the pressure of chewing and grinding. A crown will cover the tooth, reinforce its outer structure and keep it from crumbling.

How much does it cost?

The cost associated with this procedure 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. We will work with you to make sure that you are comfortable with all your financial options.

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