Saving Your Natural Tooth
Root canal therapy is an effective procedure designed to save a damaged or infected tooth. The infected pulp is removed, and the space is cleaned, disinfected, and filled with dental materials, restoring the tooth’s function and prolonging its life.
Preserving your natural tooth helps maintain chewing and speaking comfort, as well as the health of the surrounding jawbone and tissues. It also prevents the need for more invasive, costly treatments. Root canals are a safe and proven way to protect your smile and overall oral health.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Persistent toothache
- Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth
- Tooth discolouration
- Abscess (pimple-like bump) on the gums
If you experience any of these symptoms, scheduling a prompt dental appointment can help save your natural tooth.
The Root Canal Treatment Plan
Root canal therapy is a detailed procedure aimed at eliminating infection and restoring your tooth’s health and function. Here’s how it typically works:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
The process starts with an X-ray of the affected tooth and surrounding bone to identify the source of discomfort. If an infection is found, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and control the infection before starting the procedure. This step helps relieve swelling and ensures a smoother experience during the root canal.
Prepping the Tooth
Once you’re ready for the procedure, the area will be numbed with local anesthesia for your comfort. After confirming you’re fully numb, a small access hole is drilled into the tooth. The infected or damaged pulp, bacteria, and decayed tissue are then removed. Our priority is ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
Sealing the Tooth
If an abscess is present, medication may be placed inside the tooth to fully eliminate the infection. For cases requiring multiple visits, a temporary filling is used to protect the tooth between appointments. At this stage, most patients experience significant pain relief. Finally, the tooth is permanently sealed. A dental filling or crown is placed to restore the tooth’s structure and function, ensuring a complete and thorough treatment to preserve your tooth for the long term.
The Price of Root Canal Treatment in Newcastle
Root canal treatment is 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 your oral exam, we will provide a detailed quote based on your insurance coverage, so you know your exact expenses.
Costs without Insurance
If you don’t have insurance, the cost of a root canal usually ranges from $600 to $1,200 or more, depending on your case.
Why Do Costs Vary? The cost of root canal therapy depends on several factors:
- The severity of the infection
- The location of the affected tooth (front teeth vs. molars)
- The health of surrounding teeth and gums
- Potential complications that may require additional time or expertise
Since each case is unique, we can’t provide precise estimates over the phone. An in-person consultation allows us to evaluate your situation and give you a clear idea of the treatment options and costs.
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 unsure or feel dizzy or uncomfortable, 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 proper healing and the health of the treated tooth.
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 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 other parts of the body, leading to serious health complications. In many cases, tooth extraction is the only alternative to a root canal.
In most cases, preserving your natural tooth with a root canal is the preferred option. A root canal helps maintain chewing function, prevents neighboring 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 minimizes discomfort and prevents stress on the treated tooth as it heals.
A tooth infection or abscess requires immediate attention. While root canals are seen as a solution for relieving dental pain, their primary purpose is to remove infection, which could otherwise spread and cause life-threatening complications.
Addressing an infection early prevents the need for more invasive procedures. Root canal therapy is a safe and effective way to restore oral health and prevent further issues.
If you’re hesitant about a root canal, reach out to us. We’ll explain your condition and all available options. No procedure will be done without your full understanding and consent. In some cases, alternatives may be available, but our goal is to resolve the infection and ensure your well-being.
What Our Patients Are Saying
- Video testimonials
- Google reviews
Kids Love Newcastle Dental
Very Happy With The Staff And The Office
Noticeably Whiter Teeth
Just Call - Booking Is That Easy!
Give Us a Call
Tell Us What You Need
Pick a Time That Works for You
