Ideally, you’ll be able to make it to the dentist while tooth decay is still mild. If you have a cavity, cleaning the decay and the placement of a filling is enough. If the issue progresses, though, more advanced treatment may be required. This includes root canal treatment.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is a procedure in which a dentist removes the infected pulp from a patient’s tooth. This infection is caused by bacteria that infects the pulp. While root infection is generally due to tooth decay, a cracked tooth that has not been properly treated may also lead to root infection.

The Root Canal Procedure

The root canal procedure begins with a trip to the dentist for a checkup or due to pain, discomfort, or other issues with a tooth. During your visit, the dentist will take a look at the tooth to better determine the cause. If it’s determined a root infection is the culprit, your dentist will schedule an appointment for a root canal procedure.

During the procedure, your dentist numbs the area to ensure you don’t experience pain. That said, it’s expected to feel pressure. A dental dam is placed. Your dentist then drills into your tooth and clears away the infected pulp. They also clean and disinfect the area. A rubber sealant is placed afterward. Once these steps are completed, your dentist will place a filling. Your dentist may opt to place a dental crown if a back tooth is being treated.

Do I Need a Root Canal?

Yes. If the pulp of your tooth is infected, you will need root canal treatment. If you don’t get treatment for the infected root, over time, the issue will get worse. It will get to the point where the tooth can no longer be saved and will need to be extracted. You’ll also experience quite a bit of pain and discomfort.

If the infection is allowed to continue, it can spread into the jawbone and even enter the bloodstream. This is extremely problematic.

If you have… 

•       Severe decay
•       An abscess at the root of your tooth
•       A cracked tooth

…you’ll need to schedule an appointment for a root canal and any other restorative procedure that is needed. This will not only save your tooth, but it will also stop the infection from spreading to other parts of your body.

Do Root Canals Hurt?

One major reason that people avoid root canals is that they believe the procedure will hurt a lot. This is a very common misconception. In reality, the procedure isn’t painful. A numbing anesthetic is used to avoid any pain during the procedure. With that said, some pressure and mild discomfort should be expected.

After the root canal treatment is completed, you should no longer experience discomfort or pain.

Aftercare

Immediately after your root canal procedure, you’ll want to be careful when brushing the area. Don’t be aggressive. You’ll also want to avoid harder foods. Take any pain relievers as prescribed.

You can expect some swelling after the procedure, but if it continues after a few days, reach out. If the pain doesn’t seem to be lessening, you’ll also want to reach out and set an appointment to have the tooth checked. Beyond that, follow all aftercare instructions provided.

How Much Are Root Canals in Washington DC?

The cost of a root canal in Washington DC will vary. With that said, you should expect to pay around $600 to $1,400 without insurance. Your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your specific insurance plan. Keep in mind, this is for a basic root canal procedure. If a dental crown needs to be placed after the root canal procedure, you should expect to pay an additional amount.

Some factors that will determine the cost include the specific dentist you are visiting, your insurance coverage, whether the dentist is in-network, additional services, and other factors.

For more information about the average cost of a root canal procedure, reach out to DC Dental Spa. We’ll answer any questions we can. You may also need to contact your insurance company for any questions regarding your coverage for the procedure.

Do I Have Other Options?

No. The only alternative that you have to a root canal procedure is to have the tooth extracted. This is not an ideal scenario and is only a worst-case scenario measure for a dentist. Your dentist wants to keep as much of your natural tooth as possible. It is much better to undergo a root canal procedure if it’s an option.

How Do I Avoid a Root Canal?

There are times when a root canal is unavoidable, like in the case of an accident that damages the tooth. With that said, most root infections can be avoided with proper oral healthcare.

Make sure you visit DC Dental Spa twice a year for a regular checkup and cleaning. Not only will your hygienist provide a thorough, professional cleaning, but they will also inspect your teeth, gums, and jawbone for any signs of infection, decay, and/or disease. If they notice you have tooth decay, they can clean the area and place a filling before the infection reaches the root.

You’ll also need to take proper care of your oral health at home. This includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing twice a day, every day. This is your first line of defense against decay and disease.

By taking proper care of your oral health and visiting your dentist regularly, you should be able to avoid root infection and root canal treatment.

Contact DC Dental Spa Today!

If you would like to learn more about root canal prevention, or you would like to schedule an appointment for root canal treatment or a general cleaning and checkup, reach out to DC Dental Spa today. We’d be happy to answer any questions and book you for an appointment.