No one wants to hear that they need root canal therapy, which is widely rumored to be one of the most painful dental procedures. What exactly is root canal therapy, and is it possible to avoid it? Here, we answer the most common questions that our patients have about root canal therapy.
Why Would I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Whether you have progressive tooth decay, a defective crown, or complications from past procedures, bacteria can spread all the way down to the tooth root, which lies beneath the gum. In order to clear up the infection and stop it from spreading even deeper in the mouth, your dentist will remove the infected pulp as well as the infected root deep inside the gum. They will then fill the root with a medicated solution and place a crown to protect the tooth. This is a multi-step procedure completed after thoroughly numbing the area, so you won’t feel a thing.
What Does Root Canal Therapy Entail?
The procedure is rather quick and takes places over a few appointments. First, your dentist or endodontist will numb the area around the infected tooth and root. If you would prefer to receive sedation, that is possible as well. They will then proceed to clear out the pulp (the soft layer behind tooth enamel that makes up the tooth root) and flush out any remaining bacteria from the canals below the gums. They will then fill the canals with a medicated material to prevent any more bacteria from growing in the area.
Later on, the root may need additional support, such as a post, as well as a filling or crown placed over it.
Is Root Canal Therapy Painful?
Contrary to what you’ve probably heard, no! Your dentist will numb you during the procedure so you won’t feel any pain. In fact, the pain and soreness that you may experience after the procedure are similar to a tooth extraction. If you avoid having a root canal, you’re actually likely to experience more intense pain than a root canal could ever cause!
Is Root Canal Therapy Expensive?
There are a few factors that contribute to the cost of a root canal, including the type of tooth receiving treatment and the crown that you receive afterward. We will walk you through the cost of your procedure during your initial consultation so you won’t be unpleasantly surprised along the way. Remember that we offer flexible financing options to make necessary procedures like root canal therapy affordable for you!
Our team at Milltown Family Dentistry is here to make you feel as comfortable as possible during your treatments. There is no need to fear getting in the dental chair. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
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