Root canal & endodontics in East Lansing

What Is a Root Canal?

When the soft pulp tissue inside a tooth is damaged, infected, or exposed by advanced tooth decay, it can cause significant pain. To alleviate these symptoms, a procedure called root canal surgery, also known as endodontic treatment, is often recommended. During the procedure, the affected pulp is removed from the tooth. The pulp is a soft tissue containing blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that assists in the development of the tooth. However, the tooth can survive without the pulp once it has fully developed. This process is relatively painless and highly effective, allowing you to get back to smiling, biting, and chewing with ease in no time.

When Are Root Canals Needed?

Root canals are necessary when the pulp is severely damaged or infected and the tooth struggles to repair itself. The procedure is recommended for a range of issues, including cracks, deep cavities, and complications caused by previous fillings. Patients may notice tooth sensitivity, particularly in response to hot and cold sensations, which could indicate a need for root therapy. Severe pain when you chew or bite, pimple-like bumps on the gums, chipped or cracked teeth, lingering sensitivity, swollen or tender gums, and deep decay or darkening of the gums are other symptoms.

What Kind of Dentist Does Root Canals?

A dentist can perform root canals, but your dentist may recommend an endodontist instead. These dental specialists have undergone additional specialized training for two or more years after dental school and can expertly save teeth by treating them on the interior. Endodontists usually handle complex cases or perform re-treatment procedures. Contact us today if you require a qualified root canal dentist – we'll connect you with one of our highly skilled providers.

What Is the Procedure for a Root Canal?

A root canal procedure is typically a straightforward process that lasts one to two hours in standard cases. Here are the individual steps:

1. The dentist inspects the tooth using X-rays and numbs the area with a local anesthetic to ensure a painless procedure.
2. A small rubber sheet called a dental dam is placed to protect the tooth and keep it dry during the procedure. This also prevents you from swallowing any chemicals used in the procedure.
3. The endodontist creates an opening in the tooth crown and removes the pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals, preparing the space for filling.
4. The dentist cleans the exposed canals with disinfectant fluid.
5. A rubber-like material is used to fill the root canals and is secured in place with adhesive cement. In most cases, a temporary filling is applied until the tooth can be restored.
6. To protect and restore the tooth to its full function, a root canal crown or other restoration is installed by a dentist. If the tooth requires additional support, a post may be inserted. Additional details about the restoration planned for your tooth can be provided by your dentist or endodontist.

After the procedure, you can brush and floss as usual. However, avoid chewy, sticky foods until you've received a permanent restoration since those types of food can pull temporary restorations out of place.

When it comes to dental health, it is always best to keep your natural teeth whenever possible. Luckily, endodontic treatment can make this possible. With this treatment, you'll experience efficient chewing, normal biting force and sensation, and a natural appearance. Keeping your natural teeth also prevents your other teeth from shifting or experiencing strain from supporting bridges.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The price of root canals depends on the extent of damage to your tooth and the preparation it requires. Typically, root canals in a molar with three roots cost more than in a front tooth that has only one root. The type of dentist treating you (general or endodontist) also affects the cost. Usually, you can expect partial coverage by dental insurance, though it varies by plan. After a thorough assessment, our dentists can give you an estimate of the cost. Keep in mind that root canals are usually cheaper than extractions since replacing a missing tooth with an artificial one involves extra dental work.

Dental Root Canal Treatment

Although there are misconceptions about the discomfort of dental root canal therapy, we ensure our patients' comfort throughout the procedure with the use of local anesthetics. Any discomfort experienced during treatment won't be worse than what you'd expect during a cavity filling. The great news is that a severe toothache, which often results from damaged tissues inside the tooth, can be resolved quickly by root therapy. If you're suffering from dental pain, don't needlessly endure it or jeopardize your health — reach out to us today!