Root canal treatments are one of the most common and feared procedures performed in dentistry. People often get extremely nervous about undergoing such treatment. This is due to the many misconceptions surrounding what it entails. Here we’ve compiled more information on the subject. This way you can ease your doubts, especially if your dentist in Edmonton just told you that you need root canal treatment.
What is it?
Root canal treatment entails the total removal of the pulp from the inside of the tooth. This is done due to the presence of an infection. If left alone, this infection could further progress and cause severe complications. Eventually, it might lead to a jawbone infection. Therefore, when the remainder of the tooth is deemed salvageable, your dentist will recommend that you get a root canal in Edmonton.
Improper oral health often leads to enamel decay, which promotes the development of cavities. As the cavity progresses, the inner part of your tooth, the pulp, is affected. When you go to a dental clinic near you, it is likely that your dentist will ask you some questions. They’ll want to know if you have pain when you eat, increased sensitivity, tenderness in your gums, or general tooth pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain killers.
How does it work?
The root canal treatment might take either one or two appointments. You’ll usually be with your root canal dentist in Edmonton for about an hour and a half for each appointment. This is because the procedure requires precision and the complete elimination of infected pulp. Your dentist will want to make sure that your tooth is perfectly conditioned before filling it. Unlike what many people think, the actual procedure is not that painful. It might be more bothersome during the following hours, but there shouldn’t be any excruciating pain. Keep in mind that the process will relieve you from the pain you were feeling before, not increase it.
How much does it cost?
Different factors will influence the total cost of your root canal treatment. As your dentist in Edmonton can explain, one of these factors is the location of the affected tooth. Since molars have more roots than incisors, they tend to be more expensive. Likewise, the severity of the infection present in the tooth will also determine the cost. The more severe the infection, the more expensive the treatment.
Another factor that can influence the cost is your dental history. If the tooth in question has been treated before, this second procedure will be longer and more complicated. When you get a root canal in Edmonton on a previously treated tooth, they might call in a specialist. Endodontists tend to charge higher prices.
As we’ve stated, you’re going to need a filling after the root canal treatment. Fillings come at an additional cost. Furthermore, if crowns are placed, this can easily increase the price of the entire procedure. Your dentist in Edmonton can use different materials to make your crown. The price varies according to which material is used.
Can you prevent the infection that leads to needing root canal treatment?
Thankfully, the answer to this is yes. You can prevent enamel decay and cavity formation by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. Furthermore, if you don’t want to have to go to a root canal dentist in Edmonton, you should attend your biannual dentist consults. This way you’ll acquire a specialized cleaning, which will help you eliminate any remaining plaque or tartar that might have accumulated on your teeth.
