What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures, with over 14 million performed annually. This treatment saves natural teeth and prevents the need for dental implants or bridges.
At the core of your tooth is the pulp, a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. The pulp can become infected due to trauma, deep decay, cracks, chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of pulp infection include visible injury or swelling, sensitivity to temperature, and pain in the tooth and gums.
How is a Root Canal Performed?
If you exhibit symptoms of pulp infection, your dentist may recommend a root canal to remove the diseased pulp. The procedure involves cleaning and sealing the root canal system, usually under local anesthesia. Treatment may be completed in one or more visits, depending on the case.
Latest Techniques and Technology:
Rotary Endodontics: We use advanced rotary endodontic tools like Dentsply Protaper Gold files, which offer flexibility and precision for cleaning the root canals, ensuring thorough debridement of the pulp chamber and root canals.
Apex Locators: The Root ZX II apex locator provides accurate measurements of the root canal length, ensuring complete cleaning and filling.
Ultrasonic Activation: We use the Ultrasonic EndoActivator to enhance the effectiveness of the cleaning process by activating the irrigating solutions within the canals, which helps to remove debris and bacteria more effectively.
Endovac Irrigation System: The Endovac system allows us to irrigate the canal with negative pressure, effectively removing debris and bacteria from the canal and reducing the risk of post-treatment infection.
Heated Obturation Technique: Our heated obturation techniques ensure a complete and dense filling of the cleaned canals with gutta-percha, reducing the risk of future infection and ensuring the tooth is sealed effectively.
Success rates for root canals are approximately 90%. Should your tooth not be suitable for endodontic treatment, you will be informed during consultation or if complications arise during treatment. We use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort and can provide nitrous oxide analgesia if necessary. You will be able to drive home and return to your normal routine shortly after your treatment.
What Happens After Treatment?
Upon completion of your root canal, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. It is crucial to schedule a follow-up appointment with them for a restoration to protect your tooth within a few weeks. The type of restoration will be determined by your dentist. Complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery are rare, but we are available at all times to address any issues. Continue practicing good dental hygiene to prevent further decay.
How Much Will It Cost?
The cost of a root canal varies based on factors such as the severity of the damage and the tooth affected. Generally, endodontic treatment is more cost-effective than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.