Root Canal
Root Canal Treatment
Purpose:
- Treats infected or damaged tooth pulp.
- Saves the natural tooth.
Procedure:
- Diagnosis: X-rays to identify infection extent.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia to numb the area.
- Cleaning: Removal of infected pulp.
- Filling: Cleaning and sealing of the canal.
Benefits:
- Relieves pain.
- Prevents tooth loss.
- Restores normal function.
All About Root Canals
A root canal, also known as endodontic treatment, is a common dental procedure. Here’s what you need to know about it.
Is a Root Canal Painful?
Thanks to anesthesia, a root canal is no more painful than getting a filling or having a wisdom tooth removed. After the procedure, you might feel some soreness or numbness, and mild discomfort can persist for a few days.
How Do You Know If You Need a Root Canal?
Root canals are necessary for issues like cracked teeth due to injury or genetics, deep cavities, or complications from previous fillings. You might need a root canal if you experience:
- Severe pain while chewing or biting
- Pimples on the gums
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the stimulus is removed
- Swollen or tender gums
- Deep decay or darkening of the gums
How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?
Numbness from the procedure usually lasts 2-4 hours. Most patients can return to their normal activities, such as work or school, immediately after the procedure. However, it’s best to avoid eating until the numbness subsides completely.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
The cost of a root canal varies based on the complexity of the issue and the specific tooth being treated, with molars typically being more expensive to treat.
Endodontic treatment and restoring the natural tooth are usually less expensive than extracting the tooth and replacing it with an implant or bridge, which is necessary to maintain chewing function and prevent shifting of adjacent teeth. These replacement procedures generally cost more than a root canal and restoration.