Root Canal in Fond du Lac

What Should I Know About Root Canals?

Root canal treatment is also known as endodontic treatment. It is a type of surgery that is utilized when the soft pulp tissue located inside the tooth becomes infected, exposed, or decayed because of severe tooth decay or injury. When this happens, severe pain and dysfunction are typical. Root canals get rid of the affected pulp inside of your tooth and any unpleasant symptoms you’ve been experiencing.

When Are Root Canals Considered to Be a Necessary Form of Treatment?

Root canals become necessary to save the tooth when the pulp becomes so damaged or infected that it can’t repair on its own. Here are some signs that you may be in need of a dental root canal.

1. Moderate-to-severe tooth pain
2. Sensitivity to cold, heat, or touch
3. Tooth pain that wakes you up at night
4. Pain when biting down
5. Deep cavities or tooth discoloration
6. Swelling of the gum tissue around the tooth

Anyone who is experiencing one or more of the above symptoms should contact their dentist as soon as possible so that they can receive proper treatment for their issues.

Is There a Special Type of Dentist That Performs Root Canals?

A simple root canal procedure is typically conducted by your general dentist, while a more complicated case, or one requiring re-treatment of the teeth, is performed by a specialist called an endodontist. If you want to know where to find a qualified and skilled root canal dentist, you’ve come to the right place. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our trusted providers.

What Is the Procedure for a Root Canal Like?

The procedure for standard root canals tends to take around one or two hours for a dentist or endodontist to complete. The following steps are involved in the procedure.

1. Your dentist will numb the tooth with a local anesthetic so that you won’t experience discomfort or pain.
2. Your tooth will be isolated via the placement of a small shield that will also serve to keep the surrounding area clean and sanitary.
3. Your dentist will open up the crown of the tooth so that he or she can reach the pulp chamber.
4. Your dentist will take out all of the pulp and then use special tools to clean and shape your root canals.
5. Your dentist will remove debris by placing disinfecting fluid into the exposed canals.
6. Your dentist will use a rubbery material called gutta-percha to fill the canals, which will then be sealed.
7. Your dentist will use a root canal crown to cap off the tooth so that fracturing is prevented.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of root canals varies significantly depending on each individual case. Once you have seen one of our dentists for a consultation, you will be provided with an estimate of the amount that your treatment will cost. The damage done to the tooth and the amount of preparation needed to get the tooth ready for surgery play a large factor in determining the amount that you will owe. Another consideration in your bill is the number of roots present in the tooth that is being worked on. Molars are typically more expensive than front teeth. This is because molars have four roots while front teeth have just one. Costs may also be more expensive if you have your procedure performed by an endodontist instead of a general dentist. Check with your dental insurance provider to see if part of your procedure will be covered. If you have any further questions about how to afford your treatment, please contact us for more information.

What Are the Various Types of Root Canals?

The most common types of root canals are usually done on the molars, but it also has proven to be an effective procedure on other teeth. An apicoectomy is an alternative type of procedure that is conducted after an unsuccessful prior treatment. During this procedure, the tip of your tooth’s root is taken out. A pediatric pulpotomy is another type of alternative that involves the nerve being left intact when the diseased pulp is taken out.

Does it Hurt to Get Dental Root Canal Treatment?

Since root canals are performed under local anesthesia, you won’t feel any discomfort or pain during your procedure. Don’t let misconceptions about the treatment being painful keep you from seeking out treatment.

To find out more about whether or not your symptoms indicate that you are in need of a root canal in Fond du Lac, contact our friendly staff to schedule an appointment with us.