Root canal treatment is often joked about in books and movies as being one of the most painful procedures a person can experience, but this isn’t true. Instead, this procedure is recommended by the American Association of Endodontists as being one of the most common and effective options available to treat infected and decayed teeth safely and painlessly. At its core, root canal treatment is designed to eliminate bacteria from an infected root canal, or that which connects a tooth to the gums and jawbone.
During a root canal, a general anesthetic is given to the patient to numb the site and ensure the patient doesn’t experience any pain. On the outside of the tooth is a hard white substance called enamel, which is designed to protect the soft tissues and nerves on the interior. This enamel wears down naturally over time and is also affected by people’s diets and habits. So, someone who eats acidic foods or drinks substances like soda and coffee will slowly destroy their enamel over time and expose the interior tissues.
Once exposed, the tissues can become infected and slowly start to decay or deteriorate, resulting in intense damage that needs to be corrected before the tooth is lost. During a root canal, a dentist will carefully drill a hole in the teeth and then use special tools to scrape out the damaged tissues, blood vessels, and the soft pulp inside. This pulp extends down through the durable roots of the tooth and needs to be thoroughly cleaned.
Once the space has been cleaned out, the dentist sanitizes the interior of the tooth to ensure the infection doesn’t return. The next step is to then slowly insert a substance called gutta-percha in layers. The gutta-percha needs to be done in layers because there are often many small pockets inside a tooth that need to be filled, otherwise the tooth is weakened and an infection could return. Adhesive cement keeps the synthetic substance in place. After the tooth is filled to the top, it is shaped to match the rest.
Many people will experience symptoms associated with a dental infection, especially if they have allowed it to continue for several weeks or even months. However, the best way to determine whether or not you need root canal therapy is to visit a qualified dentist. You might experience one or more of the following symptoms indicating a problem with the soft pulp of the tooth:
One of the common fears among individuals who need to receive root canal treatment is the potential cost of the procedure. With dental or endodontic insurance, the procedure can actually be quite affordable. Even when it’s not, individuals can apply for a payment plan or receive a dental loan for more affordable and inexpensive treatment.
The total price of a root canal will vary based on which tooth needs the treatment. For a front tooth, the average cost is between $800 and $1,100. For bicuspids, patients can expect to pay around $900 to $1,100. If a molar needs to be cared for, then expenses can reach $1,000 to $2,000. The prices vary because some teeth are easier to reach than others, and molars typically have more pulp because of their shape and function.
The first step in receiving aid is to contact a qualified dentist’s office to get proper and professional treatment. You might need to shop around to locate an office that will accept your insurance policy, and it’s always important to find a dentist you can trust and with whom you are comfortable. If you’re seeking some of the best treatment available, then a great place to contact is Dental Arts Clearwater. This location features a qualified and experienced staff and high tech equipment that makes the procedure safe and comfortable.
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