Saving Your Natural Tooth
Root canal therapy is a highly effective procedure designed to save a natural tooth that has been damaged or infected. During the treatment, the infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed, and the empty space is cleaned, disinfected, and filled with specialized dental materials. This restores the tooth’s full function and extends its lifespan.
Saving your natural tooth not only preserves your ability to chew and speak comfortably but also helps maintain the health of the surrounding jawbone and supporting tissues. It also prevents more invasive and costly treatments down the road. Root canals are a safe, proven method to protect your natural smile and overall oral health.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Severe or persistent toothache
- Red, swollen, or tender gums near the affected tooth
- Tooth discolouration
- An abscess (a pimple-like bump) on the gums near the tooth
If you notice any of these symptoms, scheduling a dental appointment promptly can help address the issue and preserve your natural tooth.
The Root Canal Treatment Plan
Root canal therapy is a detailed, step-by-step procedure designed to eliminate infection and restore your tooth’s health and function. Here’s how the process typically works:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
The process begins with an X-ray of the affected tooth and surrounding bone to identify the source of your discomfort. If an infection is present, your dentist or endodontist may prescribe antibiotics to reduce inflammation and control the infection before starting the procedure. This step helps relieve the pressure caused by swelling, minimizing pain and ensuring a smoother experience during the root canal.
Prepping the Tooth
Once you’re ready for the procedure, the affected area will be numbed using local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. After confirming you’re fully numb, an access hole is carefully drilled into the tooth. Through this opening, the infected or damaged pulp, bacteria, and decayed nerve tissue are removed. Your comfort and peace of mind are our priority, and we ensure the process is as stress-free as possible.
Sealing the Tooth
To fully eliminate any infection, medication may be placed inside the tooth, especially if an abscess is present. For cases requiring multiple visits, a temporary filling will be used to protect the tooth between appointments. At this stage, most patients experience significant relief from any pain or discomfort.
Once the tooth is completely cleaned and healthy, it is permanently sealed. This involves filling the tooth or placing a dental crown to restore its structure and function. We take great care to ensure the root canal is thorough and complete, reducing the likelihood of future complications and preserving your tooth for years to come.
The Price of Root Canal Treatment in Newcastle
Root canal treatment is often a cost-effective solution in the long run, helping to save your natural tooth and avoid more complex dental issues.
Costs with Insurance
For patients with a standard insurance plan, the typical out-of-pocket cost for root canal therapy ranges from $200 to $500 or more. After an oral exam, we can provide you with a detailed quote tailored to your insurance coverage so you can understand your exact expenses.
Costs without Insurance
If you don’t have insurance, the cost of a root canal usually falls between $600 and $1,200 or more, depending on the specifics of your case.
Why Do Costs Vary?
The cost of root canal therapy depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of the infection
- The location of the affected tooth (e.g., front teeth vs. molars)
- The overall health of surrounding teeth and gums
- Potential complications that may require additional time or expertise
Each case is unique, which is why precise estimates cannot be provided over the phone. An in-person consultation allows us to assess your specific situation and outline all available treatment options for your consideration.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most patients can drive themselves home after a root canal since the effects of local anesthesia wear off quickly. However, if you’re feeling unsure or think you might experience dizziness or discomfort, it’s a good idea to have someone accompany you to your appointment.
Good oral hygiene is essential after a root canal. Brush twice a day, floss regularly, and follow any specific care instructions from your dentist. A follow-up appointment may be recommended to ensure the treated tooth is healing properly and remains healthy.
A root canal typically requires one or two office visits. The duration depends on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the procedure, with each visit lasting between 30 and 90 minutes.
Thanks to modern techniques and local anesthesia, root canal procedures are usually pain-free. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the treatment, and any post-procedure soreness is generally mild and temporary.
If an infected or damaged tooth is left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues or even other parts of the body, leading to serious health complications. In many cases, the only alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction.
In most cases, preserving your natural tooth with a root canal is the preferred option. A root canal helps maintain chewing function, prevents neighbouring teeth from shifting, and avoids the need for more complex procedures like dental implants or bridges.
Yes, you can resume normal eating habits, but it’s best to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for a few days. This helps minimize discomfort and prevents any stress on the treated tooth as it heals.
A tooth infection or abscess is a serious health concern that requires immediate attention. While root canals are sometimes seen as a solution to alleviate severe dental pain, their primary purpose is to remove the infection, which could otherwise spread and become life-threatening.
Addressing an infection early can prevent the need for more invasive and urgent procedures. Root canal therapy is a safe and effective way to restore oral health and prevent further complications.
If you’re hesitant about undergoing a root canal, we encourage you to reach out to us. We’ll take the time to explain your condition and all available options. No procedure will be performed without your full understanding and consent. In some cases, alternative treatments may be available, but our ultimate goal is to resolve your infection and ensure your well-being.
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