There is a lot of confusion and fear among the general public when it comes to the term “root canal.”
The goal of this article is to inform you on what exactly a root canal is, and to put to rest any fears you may have about the procedure. This dental procedure serves the dual purpose of both easing mouth discomfort, and improving the health of your teeth. A root canal specifically targets a tooth (or multiple teeth) that are decayed or infected. By going this route, you are able to save your teeth and avoid a costly tooth extraction. In addition, following a root canal you will be able to return to normal chewing, and be toothache free!
There is also quite a bit of confusion surrounding when patients need a root canal. While some patients will have no symptoms at all, the vast majority will have one or more of the following symptoms. Toothache or issues chewing are the most common (and painful) symptoms. You may also notice an increased sensitivity to hot/cold food, or inflammation of your gums. Injury to the mouth or facial region can also cause sever enough damage that a root canal is necessary. Just having a lot of dental work done over the years is also another prerequisite.
How painful is a root canal, and what does the procedure entail?
The biggest misconception out there about root canals is that they are excruciatingly painful. In reality, the pain level associated with the procedure is similar to what you would experience with a routine tooth filling. It is important to keep in mind that a procedure as important as this one will require multiple visits to the dentist.
The first step is to take an X-ray of your mouth to determine the severity of your tooth/mouth issues. This also allows dentists to detect any infections.
Then, once the afflicted tooth/teeth have been located, it’s time to get started! Your dentist will numb the affected area and make a small incision in your tooth to release any bacteria that has accumulated. During this time, the entire inside of your tooth will also be thoroughly cleaned, greatly improving the tooth’s overall health.
Now, it’s time to fill the incision site and seal your tooth back up. It is up to your dentist on whether this will happen during a separate visit, or immediately after your root canal.
The final step is having a crown or similar protective layer placed on the tooth. This process will keep your teeth healthy and intact for the rest of your life
What is a root canal going to cost me?
Luckily, this procedure is partially covered by the vast majority of health insurance companies! However, there is a wide variation in your actual out of pocket cost, depending on the severity of the damage/infection to your teeth and your individual insurance providers coverage. The rough estimate for the total cost of this procedure is $500-$1,500 for the root canal alone. You may need additional restoration to particularly damaged teeth following your root canal. In addition, the cost of a root canal can double if you choose to go to a specialist rather than an ordinary dentist.
If you live in the Seattle, Washington area, give Creekside Dental a call for all your dental needs! They were recently named, “Top Dentist” by the Seattle Met for the 3rd year in a row. Even better, they can handle all of your dental needs. From regular exams, to root canals, and teeth whitening; the experts at Creekside Dental can treat patients of all ages!