Saving Your Natural Tooth
During a root canal procedure, the pulp (living tissue inside the tooth) is removed, and the space is filled with specialized, medicated materials that restore the tooth’s function. Root canal therapy not only helps save your natural tooth, extending its lifespan, but it also protects the jawbone and other surrounding tissues. Whenever possible, preserving your natural tooth helps avoid additional pain and expenses in the future.
Common signs that root canal therapy may be required include:
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Intense tooth pain
- Swollen or red gums near the tooth
- Tooth discolouration
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
The Root Canal Treatment Plan
Root canal treatment generally involves one or two visits to the dental office and is carried out by either a dentist or an endodontist. Here’s an overview of the process:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
The procedure begins with an x-ray of the affected tooth and surrounding bone to determine the root cause of your symptoms. Your specialist may recommend antibiotics to manage infection and reduce inflammation. The intense discomfort caused by an abscess often stems from the pressure of swelling. Addressing this inflammation beforehand helps minimise pain during the root canal.
Prepping the Tooth
When it’s time to perform the root canal, we carefully numb the area by freezing your gums, teeth, and nearby tissues. Ensuring your comfort and relaxation is our priority. Once the area is numb, a small access hole is drilled into the tooth, allowing us to remove the pulp, bacteria, decayed nerve tissue, and any associated debris.
Sealing the Tooth
If the abscess is severe, medication may be placed inside the tooth to eliminate the infection entirely. For procedures requiring multiple appointments, a temporary filling will be applied. By this stage, you should already begin to experience relief. Only when the tooth is fully cleaned and healthy will it be permanently sealed.
Cost of a Root Canal in Waterdown
The cost of a root canal can vary, but it’s typically more cost-effective long-term than other treatments. With insurance, out-of-pocket costs range from $200 to $500+. After an oral exam, we can provide an accurate quote for your insurance company. Without insurance, treatment costs generally range from $600 to $1200+.
- The extent of the infection
- The infection’s location in your mouth
- The condition of the surrounding teeth and gums
- Any complications that may require additional time or specialized care
The cost depends on several factors:
Accurate quotes cannot be provided over the phone by any dental practice. Since each case varies, it’s crucial to visit a dentist who can evaluate your condition and offer all possible treatment options for your consideration.
Is There an Alternative Treatment to Root Canals?
An abscess or infection in your tooth is a serious health concern and requires immediate attention. While many people view root canals as a ‘lesser evil’ to relieve intense dental pain, the main benefit of root canal therapy is its ability to remove an infection that can spread and become life-threatening, often requiring much more extensive and urgent treatment. This is why we are committed to changing the negative perception of root canal therapy and why your comfort and peace of mind are so important to us.
If you suspect you have an infection but are hesitant about a root canal, we strongly encourage you to contact us. We will never proceed with any treatment without your full understanding and consent, and we may have alternative options to resolve your infection while prioritizing your overall well-being.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Damage can result from deep tooth decay, trauma, a dead nerve, a loose filling or crown, or a crack or chip in the tooth.
With modern technology, advanced techniques, and a patient-centred dental philosophy, our skilled team of dentists and hygienists can perform root canal treatments with little to no pain.
By the time a root canal is needed, the tooth’s pulp and nerve are already decaying. This infected tissue cannot fully heal and will only become reinfected. Removing the pulp is the safest solution.
Root canal treatments typically require one or two office visits. Simple or minor cases usually take about 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases may require around 90 minutes.
Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan. After a consultation, we can provide a detailed estimate for submission to your provider. We encourage making root canal treatment a priority—please reach out to us if you have any concerns.
A dental crown is usually necessary for back teeth like molars and premolars after a root canal. However, front teeth, including canines and incisors, may not require a crown.
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