Saving Your Natural Tooth
A root canal involves removing the infected pulp (the living tissue inside your tooth) and filling the space with special, medicated materials that restore the tooth’s full function. Not only does this preserve your natural tooth, but it also protects the surrounding bone and tissues. Saving your tooth through root canal therapy is not only less expensive in the long run but also avoids the need for more complex procedures.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Severe toothache
- Swelling or redness of the gums near the tooth
- Discoloration of the tooth
- An abscess (pimple-like bump) on the gums
Signs that you may need a root canal include:
The Root Canal Treatment Plan
A root canal typically requires one or two visits to our office and is performed by either your dentist or an endodontist (a specialist in root canal therapy). Here’s what you can expect:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
We’ll begin by taking an x-ray to identify the cause of your symptoms and to assess the surrounding bone. Depending on your situation, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce infection or swelling before the procedure.
Prepping the Tooth
Once you’re comfortable, we’ll numb the area to ensure you don’t feel any pain. An access hole will be drilled into the tooth, and the infected pulp, bacteria, and debris will be removed.
Sealing the Tooth
If needed, medication may be placed inside the tooth to clear any remaining infection. A temporary filling will be used until your next appointment, where we will permanently seal the tooth after it is thoroughly cleaned and healed.
Cost of a Root Canal in Brantford
The cost of root canal therapy varies widely based on factors such as the location of the infection, the severity of the infection, and whether complications arise during treatment. With insurance, the out-of-pocket cost typically ranges from $200 to $500+. Without insurance, treatment costs can range from $600 to $1,200+.
- The severity and location of the infection
- The health of your surrounding teeth and gums
- The complexity of the procedure
- The experience of the dental team
The cost is determined by several factors:
After an examination, we’ll provide you with a more accurate quote for your root canal treatment and assist in determining what your insurance will cover.
Is There an Alternative to a Root Canal?
An abscess or infection in the tooth is an urgent health concern. While some may consider antibiotics as an alternative, antibiotics cannot cure the infected pulp. The only way to remove the infection and save your tooth is with a root canal. Delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread, potentially leading to more invasive and costly procedures.
If you’re hesitant about undergoing a root canal, we encourage you to reach out to us. At our Brantford Dentist office, we’re committed to working with you to explore all treatment options and ensure you understand the best path for resolving your infection.
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 canal damage can occur due to deep decay, trauma (such as a cracked tooth), a loose filling or crown, or a dead nerve. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to seek treatment early to prevent further complications.
Thanks to modern techniques and advanced technology, root canal treatments are minimally painful. Our compassionate dental team ensures that you are as comfortable as possible during the procedure. Most patients experience little to no discomfort and are relieved once the treatment is complete.
While antibiotics can temporarily reduce symptoms, they cannot address the underlying infection in the pulp. Once the pulp becomes infected, it cannot heal on its own, and a root canal is the only way to remove the infection and save the tooth.
The duration of a root canal depends on the complexity of your case. Simple procedures typically take 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases may take 90 minutes or longer. We’ll give you a better estimate after examining your tooth.
Most dental insurance plans cover root canal therapy. After your consultation, we’ll provide you with an estimate to send to your insurance provider for coverage details. If you’re unsure about your coverage or have concerns, don’t hesitate to speak with us.
For back teeth (molars and premolars), a dental crown is typically needed after a root canal to restore the tooth’s strength and function. For front teeth, a crown may not be necessary, but your dentist will advise you based on your specific case.
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