Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, with well over 14 million completed every year. At the center of your tooth is pulp — a collection of blood vessels that helps build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures, and often shows up as swelling, temperature sensitivity, or pain in the tooth and gums.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, treatment typically involves removing the injured pulp and thoroughly cleaning and sealing the root canal system under local anesthesia. We also offer nitrous oxide analgesia and oral sedation when needed. If you don’t receive sedation, you’ll be able to drive yourself home and can likely return to your normal routine the same day.
How Root Canal Therapy Works
From a healthy tooth to a fully restored one, here’s what the process looks like from start to finish.
Healthy Tooth
Where treatment begins
Diagnosis
Identifying the infected pulp
Inflammation
Decay reaches the pulp
Cleaned Canals
Removing diseased tissue
Filling Placed
Sealing the canal system
Healed Tooth
Restored and protected
What happens after treatment?
A record of your treatment is sent to your restorative dentist, and you should schedule a follow-up restoration with them within a few weeks of finishing care with us. They’ll determine what type of restoration your tooth needs. Complications after routine treatment are rare, but if one does come up, we’re available at all times to respond. Keep practicing good dental hygiene to help prevent further decay.
How much will it cost?
Cost depends on factors like the severity of damage and which tooth is affected. In general, though, endodontic treatment costs considerably less than having a tooth removed and replaced with an artificial one — and it lets you keep your natural tooth.
Wondering if a root canal is right for you? We’re happy to talk it through.
Call 317-399-7255Schedule a Visit
Ready when you are.
Modern techniques and effective anesthesia make root canal treatment virtually painless. Your initial appointment will consist of a consultation, however, treatment can usually begin at that visit.
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