What is a root canal?
A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.
At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.
How is a root canal performed?
If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. We use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. In addition, we will provide nitrous oxide analgesia if indicated. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.
What happens after treatment?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.
How much will it cost?
The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.
What is an endodontist?
An endodontist is a specialist whose primary focus is endodontics, also known as root canals.
What’s the difference between a dentist and an endodontist?
A general dentist, like myself, can perform some root canals depending on their comfort level with the procedure. In my practice, I handle some root canals in-house. However, if a case is more complex or requires retreatment, I refer it to a trusted endodontist colleague in Redwood City.
When would a dentist refer me to an endodontist?
The decision to refer a patient to an endodontist largely depends on the dentist’s comfort with the procedure. In cases that are a bit more complicated, or when a root canal requires more work or retreatment due to a past infection, I refer those to an endodontist.
What procedures fall under endodontics?
Endodontics primarily involves root canal procedures, including retreatments.
Is an endodontist more expensive than a dentist?
As specialists, endodontists generally have higher fees than general dentists. However, the offices I refer to are fair and transparent about their pricing before any procedures are performed. It’s important to note that specialist fees are usually higher than those of a general dentist.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation, please give us a call. We’re here to help you.
