The inflammation can be caused by bacteria from the oral cavity that have penetrated into the pulp (the living tissue of the tooth/teeth where the nerves and blood vessels are located). This can happen due to tooth decay (caries) or a leaking filling, for example. Inflammation can also result from a hard blow to a tooth from a fall, for example.
When is root canal treatment necessary?
The most common reason for root canal treatment is inflammation in the root canal or jawbone around the root tip of your tooth. Root canal treatment is also known as endodontic treatment. Nova Dentists’ dental team has extensive experience with root canal treatments.
How does root canal inflammation occur in a tooth or molar?
How can you tell that you have root canal infection?
A first signal is often intense sensitivity when drinking hot or cold beverages. If left untreated, the inflammation can spread to the jawbone around the root tip of the tooth at a later stage. Touching or biting the molar is then very painful. Root canal treatment helps you get rid of the pain and stops the inflammation from spreading so your tooth can be spared.
- How long does root canal treatment take?
- How does root canal treatment work?
- What does root canal treatment cost?
How long does root canal treatment take?
This depends on the severity of the inflammation and the location of the roots. Often root canal treatment consists of two sessions. The initial treatment aims to get you out of pain quickly by removing the inflamed pulp. You will then receive an emergency filling. The second treatment is then to fill and complete your tooth in its entirety. A treatment can take from three quarters of an hour to an hour or longer.
How does root canal treatment work?
After placing a shielding rubber patch around the tooth, an opening is drilled to gain access to the pulp. With a hand file or rotary file, the channels are cleaned and made slightly wider. This makes room for the disinfecting rinse agent. To properly visualize the root canals, it is necessary to take one or more X-rays of the root(s). When all the channels are clean, the channels should be filled with some kind of rods. These should prevent bacteria from penetrating the roots. Finally, the tooth is filled. If the tooth is in poor condition due to tooth decay, it may be necessary to have a crown place.
Is root canal treatment painful?
Root canal treatment is always performed under local anesthesia and you will experience virtually no pain. Sometimes it is necessary to add some anesthetic in the root canal during treatment. If the nerve in the root canal has died due to infection, anesthesia is not always necessary. You can then choose whether you want anesthesia or not. After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience post-operative pain. This generally lasts no longer than 2 to 3 days. A common painkiller, such as paracetamol, may provide relief. If the pain persists, please contact us.
What does root canal treatment cost?
For current costs, please refer to our rates page. Depending on your insurance, your treatment will be (partially) reimbursed.
Our dental team is happy to help you get rid of your symptoms. Want to schedule an appointment for your tooth or toothache at Nova Dentists right away?