Root Canal & Endodontics in Alvarado

When Are Root Canals Needed?

If your tooth pulp has been severely damaged or if it is infected, a dental root canal can save your tooth and restore functionality. The tooth root can't repair itself, so it requires manual intervention by a dentist. The following are signs that you may need a dental root canal treatment:

1. You have one or more large cavities, especially if the tooth or teeth are discolored
2. You have moderate to severe tooth pain that wakes you up
3. You have persistent tooth pain
4. Your tooth is very sensitive to temperature or touch
5. You have pain when you bite down
6. You have swollen gums around one or more teeth

Which Type of Dentist Does Root Canals?

Often, a general dentist can perform standard root canals. If you have a complex case or need a retreatment for an old root canal, you may need to see an endodontist. If you need a root canal dentist, call our Alvarado office at (817) 382-4348, and we can connect you with one of our skilled dentists or endodontists.

What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?

If you need one or more simple root canals, you may need only one or two office visits. Generally, during your visit, you'll experience the following:

1. We'll numb the area around the tooth so you won't feel pain.
2. We'll place a small shield around the tooth to keep it clean.
3. Your dentist will drill a small opening in the top of the tooth so we can access the root.
4. We'll remove the pulp, then clean the area and shape the canal.
5. We'll rinse the canal, disinfect it, and remove any remaining debris.
6. We'll fill the canal with gutta-percha, which is a rubbery substance similar to your tooth root, then seal the canal.
7. We'll cap the tooth with a root canal crown so that the tooth doesn't fracture.

You may continue to experience some pain after your procedure, but it shouldn't last more than five days. Your mouth has experienced trauma, and pain is frequently the body's response to trauma. Any pain should be manageable with over-the-counter analgesics. If not, call our Alvarado office during business hours so we can get you the treatment you need. You may also experience temporary discomfort or sensitivity in your gum tissue. If you develop a fever, call our Alvarado office immediately.

What Is the Root Canal Cost?

As with all dental procedures, the cost of a root canal will be specific to the individual and will be influenced by factors such as the extent of work needed, the location, and the type of tooth. Molars are more expensive because they have four roots, requiring more work and care to fix. Front teeth have only one root, so you'll only need one procedure. Your insurance coverage will also affect your ultimate cost. If you need a specialist to perform the procedure or a specialized crown, your procedure may be more expensive. However, we don't recommend delaying the procedure because of finances. We want our patients to have the good oral health they need without worrying about budget constraints. Let us know if finances are an issue, and we'll work with you.

We also recommend you speak to your insurance provider before your appointment so you know what your plan covers, any exclusions, and any copays. Bring that information with you to your appointment. Call our Alvarado office today to schedule an appointment for a root canal in our office.

What Are the Different Types of Root Canals?

The most common types of root canals are performed on standard molars, but can be performed on any tooth that has a root, including front teeth. Alternative procedures include an apicoectomy, which removes the tip of the root and is usually performed after a previous unsuccessful treatment. A pediatric pulpotomy removes the diseased pulp while leaving the nerve intact.

Pain and Root Canals

Root canals have the reputation of being extremely painful, but we use anesthetics to ensure our patients are comfortable. If you're experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, don't continue to suffer. Tooth infections can be serious, so don't jeopardize your health. Contact Lifeway Dental today to schedule an appointment and let us alleviate your pain and discomfort.