There aren’t many dental procedures that patients fear more than a root canal treatment. However, this fear is unwarranted because it isn’t a painful procedure and hurts less than an infected tooth can. Still, at Northgate Dental Centre, we understand that you may have some questions about undergoing this procedure for the first time.
Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about root canals.
What’s a root canal, and why do I need treatment?
All teeth have root canals, narrow, hollow channels filled with soft pulp and nerves. If the pulp becomes infected following an injury or a deep, untreated cavity, a root canal treatment is necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
Will it hurt?
Having a tooth that needs a root canal is often more painful than the procedure itself. Thanks to local anesthetics, the treatment won’t be any more painful than having a cavity filled. You may experience discomfort or sensitivity in the tooth for a few days after treatment, but over-the-counter pain medication should be enough to keep you comfortable.
How long does a root canal take?
The amount of time a root canal procedure takes depends on the teeth being treated and the level of infection. In general, a root canal should take one hour to 90 minutes per tooth.
Is it expensive?
Your treatment cost depends on the level of infection in your tooth and the amount of work, the dentist, has to do. It’s best to see us for an estimate and find out about what insurance policies we accept.
Are there any alternatives to having a root canal treatment?
If the pulp of one of your teeth is infected, a root canal is the only option. However, if the infection is too severe, your dentist may suggest extracting the tooth and replacing it with an implant.
What happens to my teeth after treatment?
Once the infected pulp is removed from your tooth and replaced with filling material, the tooth will be capped to protect it from further damage and to restore its natural appearance.
What are the signs that I need a root canal?
Signs that you may need a root canal include severe tooth pain that may or may not be accompanied by a pimple-like bump on the gum or swollen gums around the painful tooth. Another sign is temperature sensitivity that continues after the stimulus is removed.
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, don’t wait to get it checked out. Call Northgate Dental Centre today to get it taken care of as soon as possible.
