Root Canal Therapy
Many people's worst fear when it comes to the dentist is a root canal, but don't let the myths floating around give you the wrong idea and prevent you from getting the treatment when you need it. Root canal therapy is a way to heal and save a severely infected tooth so you don't end up losing it prematurely. Not to mention that whatever discomfort the root canal infection is causing is what's actually painful — not the procedure.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment
A root canal can become infected due to multiple reasons. You may have deep decay, it may be a result of repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or there might be a chip or crack in a tooth that let bacteria in.
There are a number of different signs that you might need root canal treatment. Here are some of the most common:
- Dull ache to a sharp pain
- Tenderness or swelling in your gums
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Gum boil (pimple-like bump)
- Darkened teeth
If you notice any of these, we recommend you make an appointment with Dr. Tin at Villa Vista Dental so we can get you the appropriate treatment, whether or not that means a root canal. The only way to truly know if you need a root canal specifically is to visit a dentist so they can take a look. This is because each patient is unique in what they do or don't experience and because some the symptoms could be so subtle that you might overlook them.
How Root Canal Therapy Works
A lot of patients think that root canal surgery is an extremely complex procedure, when really it's quite similar to getting a routine filling. We'll make a small hole in your tooth through which we'll remove any of the inflamed or infected pulp from within your tooth's root canals. Once all of that has been taken out, we'll clean and seal the canals. The last step is placing a restoration like a crown or filling on top to protect it and get it back to full function.
When you don't take care of a tooth infection, or an abscessed tooth, it can not only cause you a whole lot of pain but it can also cause severe damage to surrounding teeth and your bone. Root canal therapy is a step to prevent that and make sure you don't have to get a tooth extraction.
Root Canal FAQs
What’s the recovery process like after having a root canal?
The recovery process after root canal therapy is relatively simple. You may experience mild sensitivity or inflammation around the area, but you should feel relieved of the severe pain you had before treatment. To alleviate some of the discomfort following your root canal procedure, over-the-counter pain killers may be taken. Most patients are able to return to normal activities the following day.
Is a root canal my only tooth extraction alternative?
Our team strives to exhaust all other treatment options before recommending a full extraction. If the infection is manageable with root canal therapy, it is certainly the better alternative for an extraction. Root canal treatment is extremely common and has a very high success rate. If you’re questioning whether you need a tooth extraction or a root canal, please schedule a consultation with our team today.
What can I do to prevent my teeth from needing a root canal?
Your best defense against root canal therapy is practicing good oral hygiene. Daily flossing, adequate brushing, and rinsing with an alcohol-free mouthwash is a solid foundation. Additionally, it’s important to attend your biannual cleanings at Villa Vista Dental so we can monitor your dental health and treat problem areas before they progress to the level of needing a root canal.
What does a root canal cost?
The cost of a root canal varies depending on each patient’s case. During your first visit with us, we’ll discuss treatment options and provide you with an accurate cost breakdown. Before treatment begins, we’ll be happy to discuss your payment options with you. Ultimately, our goal is to offer affordable root canal therapy to the Elk Grove area.
Let us help you get back to a healthy smile!