Beneath the enamel and dentin layer of teeth is a type of soft tissue called pulp. It contains blood vessels and nerves. If the pulp becomes infected, a root canal may be needed to save the tooth.
When the tooth is numb, an opening is made through the crown of the tooth and all inflamed or dead pulp tissue is removed. The tooth is then cleaned, shaped and disinfected before being filled with a rubber-like material.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes the damaged, inflamed or infected inner tooth tissue, called pulp. If left untreated, endodontic infections can cause severe pain, swelling and damage to the surrounding bone.
To perform a root canal dentist bristol va, your dentist will first need to take X-rays of the affected tooth and then use local anesthesia to numb the area around it. Then they’ll drill an access hole in your tooth and clean out the bacteria and other debris with a special file. They’ll also use a rubber compound, called gutta-percha, to fill the root canal and seal it.
While a root canal isn’t a risk-free treatment, it’s usually much less painful than the alternative of having your tooth removed. Plus, it allows you to keep your natural teeth, which can reduce the costs and complications associated with dentures or dental implants. And while a tooth that’s had a root canal can still be prone to breaking, good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits can help prevent it.
How is a Root Canal Done?
Your dentist will use sterilized equipment to drill a hole through your tooth’s crown, the flat part on top, to access the soft tissue in the centre of your tooth (pulp). They will remove any infected pulp and flush the area with water or sodium hypochlorite. X-rays may be taken to confirm the opening is clean.
They will then seal the opening and fill the root canal dentist bristol va with a rubber compound called gutta-percha. They will make sure the filling is deep enough to prevent a reinfection in the future.
A root canal treatment is usually carried out under local anaesthetic, a painkilling medicine that numbs your infected tooth and the gum around it. Your dentist will place a sheet of rubber, known as a dam, around your tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva during treatment.
It is important to avoid chewing on the tooth under repair until it is fully restored, which might be done with a filling or a dental crown. Removing a tooth can cause surrounding teeth to shift and become crooked, which can lead to dental issues including TMJ and occlusion problems.
Why is a Root Canal Needed?
A root canal is the best way to save a damaged tooth from extraction. It can also prevent future problems with the remaining natural teeth and lessen the need for dental implants and bridges.
Tooth pain and sensitivity that doesn’t go away or worsen after treatment are common signs of an infection in the pulp of the tooth. An untreated infection can lead to a severe toothache or an abscess that may spread beyond the tooth and jawbone, causing serious health complications.
Other signs that you might need a root canal include cracked or discolored teeth, swelling or gum disease, and tenderness around the affected tooth. If you experience these symptoms, you should visit an endodontist as soon as possible. If left untreated, the infection in the pulp can cause a number of complications including extreme tooth pain or even an abscess that will need to be surgically removed. The good news is that by following proper oral hygiene practices, a root canal can be avoided in most cases. This includes daily brushing, flossing and using an antiseptic mouthwash at least twice a day.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
There are several factors that can impact the cost of a root canal. The most important factor is the level of expertise of the dentist or endodontist performing the procedure. More experienced practitioners generally charge higher fees. The location of the tooth also affects the cost. Molars (back teeth) are more difficult to treat than premolars or front teeth because they have multiple roots.
Without dental insurance, a root canal dentist bristol va can cost between $700 and $1,600. However, the average root canal cost does not include the price of the dental crown that will need to be placed on top of the treated tooth.
Whether or not dental insurance will cover a root canal depends on the type of dental plan and coverage levels. For example, PPO plans typically cover up to 80% of the treatment costs after the patient meets their deductible. On the other hand, HMO plans often have lower out-of-pocket costs, but they require patients to choose from a list of in-network dentists for full coverage. Additionally, many dental plans have annual maximums that will stop covering treatments once they reach the limit.
How Long Will a Root Canal Last?
A root canal is a reliable treatment that can save severely damaged teeth, so it’s worth considering if you’re experiencing lingering tooth pain or sensitivity that won’t go away. You may also notice swollen gums, which is a good indicator that the pulp inside your tooth is dying.
A successful root canal can last for many years or even a lifetime, so it’s important to protect the tooth that has been treated with proper care. This includes avoiding habits that put the tooth under strain, such as grinding your teeth (bruxism) or chewing on hard objects, and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups so they can spot any signs of decay early.
Getting a root canal isn’t any more painful than having a cavity filled, and it can save you from having to replace an infected or damaged tooth with an implant. Getting timely treatment can greatly increase your chances of having your root canal last, so be sure to make an appointment if you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain or sensitivity. A quality restoration, such as a dental filling or crown, will also help your restored tooth last longer.
