A root canal is more than just a dental procedure – it's a lifesaver for your tooth. When the pulp inside your tooth, which contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or inflamed, a root canal is often the best course of action to save the tooth and alleviate pain.
Your dental health is Dr. Bahrami's top priority, and there are several reasons you might need a root canal, including:
Listen to your body—it will often tell you when something isn't right. If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to visit us:
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, don't hesitate to contact us. Early intervention can mean a simpler and more effective treatment.
At Bentwater Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we want you to feel informed and at ease about your root canal procedure. Here's what happens during this routine treatment:
Dr. Bahrami takes pride in using the latest technology and techniques to make your root canal both efficient and comfortable.
Modern techniques and anesthetics have made root canal treatments highly manageable, and most patients report that the procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. We prioritize your comfort and will make sure you're as relaxed and pain-free as possible during the procedure.
Symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, discoloration of the tooth, swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums, or a persistent or recurring pimple on the gums.
Tooth extraction is another option, but it's usually best to save your natural tooth if possible. Extracted teeth must be replaced with an implant or bridge to restore chewing function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, which can be more costly and complex than a root canal.
A root canal procedure involves several steps: numbing the tooth, creating an access hole, removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inner tooth, filling and sealing it, and finally, restoring the tooth with a crown or filling for protection.
Typically, a root canal is completed in one or two appointments, depending on the condition of your tooth and your personal circumstances. The procedure itself can take about 90 minutes to complete.
Root canal treatments have a high success rate. However, as with any medical procedure, there can be risks involved, such as an infection, which would require treatment. Dr. Bahrami will discuss all potential risks with you beforehand.
After your root canal therapy, you'll need to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it's fully restored by your dentist to prevent recontamination or breakage. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will help prolong the life of your treated tooth.
Most patients can return to their normal activities the next day. You may experience some soreness or mild discomfort for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
After a root canal, a tooth will usually require a crown to protect it from fracture since the tooth is more brittle. With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
The cost of a root canal varies depending on the severity of the problem and the tooth affected. We offer various financing options and will work with your insurance provider to ensure you get the quality care you need.
