Root canal & endodontics in Berkley

What Is a Root Canal?

When a tooth's pulp gets infected, damaged or exposed from advanced tooth decay, it can cause pain and difficulty chewing. Endodontic treatment, commonly known as root canal surgery, involves removing the affected pulp to relieve symptoms permanently. The pulp is a soft tissue in the tooth that consists of blood vessels, connective tissue, and nerves that help a tooth grow. Fully developed teeth can survive without the pulp and receive nourishment from surrounding tissues.

When Are Root Canals Needed?

Root canals are necessary when the inner pulp tissue is severely damaged or infected to the point where it can't heal on its own. This is often the case with teeth that have a deep cavity, cracks from an injury, or complications from a previous filling. If a tooth has become very sensitive to hot or cold sensations, chances are there is a need for root therapy. Other signs include severe pain while chewing or biting, pimple-like bumps on the gums, swollen, or tender gums, and darkening of teeth. You might also experience pain that interferes with getting a good night's sleep. Keep in mind that even if the pain goes away on its own, it doesn't mean the pulp has healed; it could be that the nerves in the tooth have died. Contact a dentist for an exam as soon as possible for the best chance of saving your tooth.

This dental treatment provides a range of benefits, including relief from pain and discomfort, preservation of the natural tooth, improved oral health, restored tooth functionality, and long-term durability.

What Kind of Dentist Does Root Canals?

A general dentist can typically perform the procedure. However, if the situation is more complex or requires re-treatment, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist. Endodontists are specialists with advanced training (up to two years beyond dental school) in diagnosing tooth pain and performing procedures involving the inside of teeth. If you're in need of a qualified provider, get in touch with us today to be connected with one of our skilled specialists.

What Is the Procedure for Root Canals?

A standard root canal procedure usually requires only one or two hours to complete. The following outlines the steps involved:

1. The root canal dentist inspects the teeth and takes X-rays. Then, they numb the tooth using a local anesthetic.
2. A protective sheet called a dental dam is laid over the area around the tooth. The dentist does this to keep the tooth saliva-free throughout the procedure.
3. The dentist makes an opening in the tooth. Very small tools are used to eliminate the affected pulp and prepare the space for the filling.
4. Fluid is placed into the exposed canals to clean and disinfect them.
5. The dentist fills the root canals with a material called gutta-percha. An adhesive cements the gutta-percha in place to ensure full sealing of the canals. Often, a filling is placed to seal the opening temporarily.
6. Finally, you'll need to visit your dentist one more time to have a permanent restoration, like a root canal crown or another treatment, placed on your tooth to secure and restore it to full function. If the tooth doesn’t have enough structure to hold the restoration in place, your dentist or endodontist may put a supportive post in the tooth as well.

After the procedure, you might experience mild discomfort that you can treat with OTC pain medications. Brush and floss as usual, but avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods until the permanent restoration is in place.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of a root canal is influenced by how damaged the tooth is and the preparation needed for the required procedure. The price also fluctuates according to the number of roots you're treating. For instance, a dental root canal for a front tooth, which has one root, costs less than one for a molar with four roots. In addition, the professional performing the procedure can affect the cost; the cost is lower if it's being handled by a general dentist. Insurance may cover part of the costs. Our dentists can give you an accurate estimate after conducting a thorough exam.

Dental Root Canal Treatment

Although many fear that endodontic treatment might be a painful procedure, local anesthesia will ensure your comfort throughout the process. The level of discomfort experienced during this procedure is similar to that of a dental filling, and it effectively treats tooth pain caused by damaged tissue. The process is relatively quick and offers hopeful solutions to those considering an extraction. Above all else, this procedure helps preserve your natural smile safely and effectively. If you believe you might need this treatment, we strongly recommend getting checked out sooner rather than later — schedule an appointment today with one of our knowledgeable dentists, who can assess the issue and provide suitable solutions.