What is root canal treatment?

When the pulp or nerve of a tooth becomes infected or dies, root canal treatment is necessary to save the tooth. Infection can reach the nerve from a deep cavity or fracture in the tooth from trauma. Once the nerve dies and becomes infected, there is nothing that can reverse the process and the nerve must be removed.

The process of performing a root canal is generally a comfortable and virtually painless procedure. Once the tooth is anesthetized, you will feel no discomfort. The nerve is gently removed and the inside of the tooth (root canal) is cleaned and sterilized to get rid of all bacteria. Back teeth (molars) have multiple roots and multiple canals and can be a bit more difficult to perform. Some dentists will refer their patient to an endodontist who is a root canal specialist. They perform root canals on any tooth with varying degrees of difficulty.

To determine if a tooth has an infected pulp, we do a thorough examination. The exam often includes xrays and sometimes includes checking the health of the pulp with a pulp tester. The dentist may also apply heat, cold and/or tap on the tooth to see if it's sensitive and reproduces the symptoms you have been experiencing. If they determine that it is in fact infected, root canal treatment will be recommended. Once the treatment is completed, the tooth will be free of bacteria inside the tooth and have no more sensation to hot and cold. The patient may experience tenderness to chew on it for a few days following the procedure. The process of performing root canal treatment weakens the tooth since it is hollow and dry. A crown or cap may be recommended on the tooth in order to protect it from fracturing. Keeping up with routine dental checkups will allow a dentist to check visually and inspect with xrays to check for decay and catch it in its early stages before it reaches the pulp of the tooth.

A small early cavity may cost around $100.00 to restore, however, a root canal and crown could cost $2500.00 or more. So early detection is the key to saving your teeth and money.