If you have a decayed tooth, you may simply need to have it cleaned out and then have a filling placed. If the infection is bad enough, though, it may reach the root pulp. From there, a more advanced procedure will be required. Generally, this procedure will be a root canal.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is an oral health procedure in which a dentist removes bacteria and infected tooth pulp from a tooth that has decayed to the point where bacteria has infected the root. A root canal also may be required if a patient’s tooth is severely damaged, and bacteria makes its way into the root of the tooth.

The Root Canal Procedure

A root canal starts with a trip to the dentist for an initial checkup or due to discomfort, pain, or other problems with a tooth. Your dentist will diagnose any infection. If the root pulp is infected, they will schedule a root canal.

The procedure itself involves the numbing of the area to ensure you aren’t in pain. You’ll still likely feel pressure, though. Your dentist will place a dental dam, drill into the tooth, and remove the infected pulp. They will then clean and disinfect the area. Once everything is clean and the infected pulp is removed, a rubber sealant will be placed. Your dentist will then either place a filling or an entire dental crown.

Do I Need Root Canal Treatment?

If the root pulp of your tooth is infected, you will need a root canal. Without treatment, the issue will progress and eventually reach the point where extraction is the only option. The pain you are experiencing will also likely get worse.

Over time, the infection can spread to the jawbone and the bloodstream. This is particularly bad.

If you have… 

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

…you should schedule an appointment for root canal treatment and any other restorative procedure required. This will not only save your tooth, but also stop the infection from spreading.

Does a Root Canal Procedure Hurt?

Generally, root canals don’t hurt. There may be some pressure and discomfort during a root canal procedure, but root canals being “painful” is a myth. A numbing anesthetic is used to ensure you don’t experience pain during your root canal procedure.

Once the root canal treatment is finished, you should no longer experience pain.

Aftercare

Right after your root canal, you’ll need to be careful when brushing. Don’t brush hard. Take any pain relievers as prescribed. You’ll also need to avoid any hard food. Your dentist will provide you with aftercare instructions. As long as you follow those instructions, you’ll be fine.

With that said, if you start experiencing excessive pain or swelling after the procedure, contact your dentist.

How Much Do Root Canals Cost?

The cost of root canal treatment depends on a variety of different factors. Generally, root canal treatment costs around $600-$1,400 before insurance coverage. If you have insurance, though, the cost may be considerably less. Other factors that will determine the cost include location, whether the dentist is in-network, any additional services, and other factors.

You may need additional services, and those will cost extra. For instance, if a crown needed to be placed after your root canal, it will increase the cost of the procedure.

If you would like to learn more about the root canal treatment procedure and the costs that may be involved, reach out to DC Dental Spa. We’d be happy to answer any questions we are able to. If you have questions about your insurance, you’ll likely need to contact your insurance provider.

Is It Cheaper to Get a Root Canal or Extraction?

This is a much more complicated question than you may initially think. While the initial cost of an extraction (as little as $75) is lower than the cost of a root canal, you need to consider the costs you will accrue down the road.

Once you have your tooth extracted, you need to have it replaced. If you don’t, your jawbone will deteriorate, and your healthy teeth will begin to shift. This shifting can lead to crowding, impacting, and crookedness. In turn, you increase your chances of decay and infection—which may lead to another root infection.

Tooth replacement procedures are very expensive, even with the help of insurance. They cost a significant amount more than the cost of a root canal. It’s a much better idea to pay a little extra for a root canal than pay for a replacement and all of the procedures that may be required due to a missing tooth.

How Do I Avoid a Root Canal?

Most of the time, root canals can be avoided.  Even if your tooth is damaged, if you visit an emergency dentist, you may be able to avoid a pulp infection. You can also avoid root canal treatment with proper oral healthcare.

It’s important to brush, floss, and rinse every day to ensure your ongoing oral health. This is your first line of defense against gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues.

You should visit DC Dental Spa every six months for a cleaning and checkup. During your cleaning, your hygienist will use special tools to ensure your teeth and gums are extra clean. Your dentist will examine your teeth, jawbone, and gums during your checkup. If they notice any decay or infection, they will schedule you for a follow-up appointment to address the issue. If your dentist is able to catch the decay early enough, you should be able to avoid a root canal procedure.

Contact DC Dental Spa Today!

To learn more about root canal infection prevention or to schedule an appointment, contact us today. We’ll happily answer your questions and get you booked for an appointment.