Non Surgical Root Canal

Why do I need a root canal?

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for dental implants or bridges.

At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that help to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature, or pain in the tooth and gums.

How is a root canal performed?

If you experience any of these symptoms, we will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. Dr. Toothman will refer you to an endodontist (a root canal specialist) for your root canal to be completed. The endodontist will remove the injured pulp and the root canal system will be thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required.  In addition, they can provide nitrous oxide analgesia if indicated. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.  Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases.

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist, Dr Toothman. You should contact our office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion of your root canal. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. Please make sure to make an appointment with Dr. Toothman for the final restoration over the root canal. The endodontist will place a temporary restoration that needs to be replaced no later than 4-6 weeks after the root canal has been completed. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.

How much will it cost?

The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on which tooth is affected and other factors. In general, endodontic treatment is less expensive than tooth removal or replacement with an artificial tooth, and you are able to retain your own tooth.