Why You Might Need a Root Canal
Recognizing the Symptoms
Common Signs you might need a root canal:
- Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers after the stimulus is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Discoloration of a tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near a tooth, indicating an abscess
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seed dental care promptly to prevent more serious issues.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
- Preserves Your Natural Tooth:Avoids extraction and maintains your natural smile.
- Eliminates Pain: Relieves discomfort caused by infection or inflamation.
- Prevents Spread of Infection: Protects adjacent teeth and gums from bacteria.
- Restores Functionality: Allows you to chew and bite without pain.
- Efficient and Cost-Effective: Avoids the need for more extensive dental work.
By choosing root canal therapy, you’re making a proactive decision to safeguard your oral health and overall well-being.
Common Root Canal Concerns
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
A typical root canal at Meridian by a specialist takes about 45 to 90 minutes. The duration depends on the complexity of the tooth’s structure and the extent of infection. Some cases may require an additional visit.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
The cost varies based on the tooth’s location and complexity but typically ranges from $850 to $2150. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options, including financing plans, to make your treatment affordable. Molars in the back of the mouth tend to be more expensive to treat because they have more roots and are harder to access, require additional skillset and experience to manage them well. The root canal cost can also be affected by the severity of the infection. If the infection is severe, the dentist may need to perform additional procedures, such as draining the infection, a root canal retreatment or an apicoectomy, or treat the tooth through multiple visits, which all can increase the cost. Family dentists typically charge less for a root canal than an endodontist, who is a specialist in root canal therapy, and has gone through additional years of training to provide root canal therapy in the most efficient, comfortable and predictable manner.
Will the Procedure Hurt?
Your comfort is our top priority at Meridian Endodontics & Periodontics. We understand that dental procedures can cause anxiety, and we’re committed to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Thanks to modern anesthesia, a calming environment, and advanced techniques, most patients find a root canal procedure no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling. We use The Wand®, a Computer Assisted Anesthetic Delivery System, which ensures the most comfortable and effective anesthesia experience by delivering precise numbing with minimal discomfort.
Overcoming Dental Anxiety
If you feel anxious about dental visits, you’re not alone—over 80% of Americans experience some level of dental anxiety or phobia. Delaying or avoiding dental care can lead to a cycle of pain and more complex treatments. At Meridian, we strive to break that cycle by offering:
- Sedation Options: We provide nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation (sleep dentistry), and IV sedation to help you relax. Our team will discuss these options to find the best fit for your needs.
- Calm Environment: Our office is designed to be a peaceful, spa-like space with soothing lavender scents, nature shows, and noise-canceling headphones. The tranquil non-clinical atmosphere helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Relaxation Techniques: We encourage techniques like focused breathing and meditation during your appointment. Feel free to bring stress-relief items like a stress ball if it helps you feel more at ease.
- Personal Comfort Items: Weighted blankets or our X-ray shield can provide a comforting, soothing effect during your procedure.
- Support from Loved Ones: You’re welcome to bring a trusted family member or friend to your examination and care presentation appointment for additional support.
- Effective Communication: Please share your concerns with us before or during your visit. We’re here to listen and will tailor your experience to ensure maximum comfort.
Our goal is not only to provide excellent dental care but also to help you overcome any fears associated with dental treatment. By addressing dental anxiety head-on, we aim to improve your overall experience, promote faster healing, and achieve better outcomes.
Remember: Your comfort is our priority. No matter how long it’s been since your last visit, we’re here to support you without judgment and help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
What Is the Recovery Process Like?
Post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and temporary. You may experience slight sensitivity or soreness for a few days up to a week, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery.
Will I Have Future Issues with This Tooth?
With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. A crown by your family dentist is usually recommended after a root canal to strengthen and protect the tooth long term if the tooth has not previously had one. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential to prevent future issues.
