Non Surgical Root Canal
What is 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 avoid the need of dental implants or bridges.
At the center of your tooth is the “pulp”. The Pulp is a collection of artery, vein, and nerve tissue, that helped to build the surrounding tooth during the growth of the embryo and on through infancy. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures.
Common reasons that teeth require root canal treatment
- Inflamed/infected tooth pulp (nerve)
- Severe sensitivity to hot and cold and biting pressure
- Tooth decay, long standing decay under a failing filling, or decay under a crown
- Chipped or broken tooth
- Trauma to the tooth
- Swelling or tenderness near the affected tooth indicating infection
- Repeated dental procedures on a tooth that has had large, deep fillings over time
- a “bubble” on the gum on or adjacent to a specific tooth
How is a root canal performed?
If you experience any of the above mentioned symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system (where the nerve used to be) is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. In addtion, we are able to provide nitrous oxide analgesia (laughing gas) if indicated to increase your comfort. You will be able to drive home after your treatment.Root canal treatment may be completed in one or more visits depending on the care required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases.
If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation. If the tooth has structural problems that impact the predictability of root canal treatment, alternative treatments will be discussed to allow you to make an educated decision about managing your care.
What happens after treatment?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, Drs. Mogelof will help you decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth.
How much will it cost?
The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is preferred over tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth. We always review costs of treatment before proceeding with care.