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Understanding Root Canal Therapy

Root Canal Therapy - Educational Illustration

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure to save a tooth that has become infected or decayed. Inside your tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp that contains the nerve. When the nerve becomes infected due to decay, repeated procedures, or a crack in the tooth, root canal therapy is often necessary to save your tooth.

Did You Know? Root canal therapy is one of the most successful procedures in dentistry, with a success rate of over 95%. It relieves pain and helps preserve your natural tooth.

The Procedure

The procedure involves removing the infected nerve, cleaning and disinfecting the space, and then filling it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Your tooth will then be restored with a crown to protect it.

  • Numbing: We apply anesthetic to make sure you're comfortable
  • Access: We create an opening in the crown of the tooth
  • Cleaning: We carefully remove the infected pulp
  • Filling: We fill the space with gutta-percha
  • Restoration: A crown is placed to restore function
Did You Know? Modern root canal therapy is completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity. Pain relief is often felt immediately after treatment.

Treatment Cost Estimate

The cost of root canal therapy typically ranges from $900 - $1,500 depending on which tooth is treated and the complexity of the case. Crowns are usually needed afterward and range from $800 - $1,500.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the procedure hurt?
No. We use local anesthesia to numb the tooth completely. You may feel pressure and vibration, but you should not feel pain. If you do, we'll stop and apply more anesthesia.
How long does it take?
Most root canal procedures take between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the tooth location and the infection severity. We'll discuss timing during your consultation.
What happens after the treatment?
You may experience mild discomfort for a few days, but this should resolve with over-the-counter pain medication. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your crown is placed. The tooth is fragile without the crown.
How successful is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy has a very high success rate of over 95%. With proper care and a crown, your treated tooth can last for many years or even a lifetime.
Questions about your root canal treatment? Talk to your dental team. We're here to help you understand your care and answer any concerns.
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