Saving Your Natural Tooth
During a root canal procedure, the pulp of the tooth (the living tissue inside) is removed, and the space is filled with special, medicated dental materials that restore the tooth to full function. This treatment not only preserves your natural tooth, extending its lifespan, but also protects and preserves the surrounding jaw bone and tissues. By saving your natural tooth, you can avoid more pain and expensive treatments in the future.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Severe toothache pain
- Red or swollen gums near the tooth
- Discoloration of the tooth
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
Several signs may suggest that a root canal is necessary:
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a Dentist Brantford to assess whether a root canal is the best option for you.
The Root Canal Treatment Plan
Root canal treatment typically requires one or two visits to the dentist, depending on the complexity of the case. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
First, we take an X-ray of the tooth and surrounding bone to understand the cause of your symptoms. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to control infection and reduce inflammation, which can help alleviate the pressure causing pain.
Prepping the Tooth
Once the area is numbed, an access hole is drilled into the tooth. The pulp, bacteria, and decayed nerve tissue are then carefully removed.
Sealing the Tooth
If the infection is severe, medication may be placed inside the tooth to completely clear the infection. If your root canal treatment requires multiple visits, a temporary filling is applied. Once your tooth is fully cleaned and healed, it is permanently sealed.
Cost of a Root Canal in Brantford
The cost of root canal treatment can vary depending on several factors. Typically, with insurance, the out-of-pocket cost for root canal therapy is between $200 and $500+. Without insurance, you can expect the treatment to cost between $600 and $1,200+.
- The severity of the infection
- The location of the infection
- The health of surrounding teeth and gums
- Potential complications that require more time or care
Factors that influence the cost include:
To get a more accurate cost estimate, we encourage you to schedule an appointment. After a consultation, we can provide a detailed quote and discuss your treatment options.
Is There an Alternative Treatment to Root Canals?
An infection or abscess in your tooth is a serious health concern, and leaving it untreated can lead to more significant complications. While some people view root canal therapy as an unpleasant procedure, it’s a highly effective way to remove infection and preserve your natural tooth. Without a root canal, the infection could spread, requiring more invasive treatment.
If you’re hesitant about having a root canal, please reach out to us. We will provide you with all the information you need and ensure that you fully understand your treatment options. Your comfort and peace of mind are important to us.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Root canals are often necessary due to:
- Deep decay that reaches the pulp
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
- A loose filling or crown
- Cracks or chips in the tooth
Thanks to modern techniques and technology, root canal treatments are typically minimally painful. Our compassionate team of Dentist Brantford professionals ensures that the procedure is as comfortable as possible. Any discomfort you may experience will be temporary and manageable.
By the time you need a root canal, the pulp and nerve tissue inside your tooth are already decaying. Antibiotics can help control the infection, but they cannot heal the damaged tissue. Removing the infected pulp is the only way to completely resolve the issue and prevent further infection.
The length of a root canal depends on the complexity of the case. Simple cases can take 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases may require up to 90 minutes. We’ll provide a more accurate estimate after evaluating your condition.
Insurance coverage for root canals varies depending on your plan. After your consultation, we’ll provide an estimate that you can submit to your insurance provider. We strongly encourage you to prioritize this procedure to avoid further complications.
For most patients, a crown is needed after a root canal, especially on back teeth like molars and premolars. Front teeth may not require a crown, but this depends on your individual situation.
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