Root Canal Therapy – Temple, TX
There's No Need
to Fear
When you’re already suffering from a painful toothache, being told that you need a root canal is probably not something that you want to hear. But despite what you might have heard about the procedure, the truth is that nowadays, it’s a practically painless treatment and is one of the best ways to stop dental pain. Don’t let fear take over when you have a toothache – call your team at Temple Choice Dental right away for root canal therapy in Temple, TX.
Why Choose Temple Choice Dental for Root Canal Therapy?
- Multiple Forms of Sedation
- Team of Caring Dental Experts
The Root
Canal Procedure
First, we take an X-ray of the tooth to check how far the infection has spread as well as to familiarize ourselves with the shape of the tooth’s root canals. During the actual procedure, your mouth will be numbed before we make a small hole in the tooth. We’ll take out the pulp along with any other harmful substances before cleaning the inside of the tooth with a series of files. Once the inside is completely sanitized, the tooth will be sealed with filling material and a crown.
Reasons for
a Root Canal
A root canal is usually performed when the inner tissue of the tooth, also known as the pulp, becomes infected. The biggest symptom of such an infection is dental pain. Other warning signs might include:
- Extreme tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, especially if it lasts more than 30 seconds.
- Red or swollen gums near the tooth in question.
- Constantly experiencing pain when biting down or chewing.
- Pimple-like sore on the gums.
- Developing a fever in addition to dental pain.
Understanding the Cost of Root Canals
While many people might wonder whether root canal treatment involves discomfort as shown on TV, you may also be thinking about the cost of the procedure. Fortunately, not only is the process as comfortable as receiving a large tooth filling, but our team will also be more than happy to help you work within your budget. During your initial consultation, we’ll go over what to expect from the treatment as well as your options for lowering out-of-pocket expenses.
Factors That Can Affect Root Canal Cost
Various factors can impact how much you’ll expect to pay for your root canal procedure, such as how many teeth need to be treated, the complexity of the situation, the location of the tooth, and the kind of restoration you’ll require to renew your bite. Our team will need to thoroughly evaluate your situation during your initial visit, that way we can also address any other underlying problems that could pose a risk to your oral health. Once we’ve examined your smile and taken X-rays, we can begin developing your treatment plan as well as walk you through the cost.
Is it Cheaper to Remove My Tooth?
Although it might make some sense to simply remove a problematic tooth, you will have to consider the not-so-simple consequences of losing one of your pearly whites. After extracting it, you’ll have to consider replacing it with a dental bridge, denture, or implant to close the gap in your smile. Neglecting to fill the space can lead to jawbone deterioration as well as dental shifting, as any remaining nearby teeth can start to move out of place. To avoid needing costly procedures to fix your smile later on, it’s best to preserve your natural tooth with a root canal when the opportunity presents itself.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Root Canal Treatment?
In many cases, since root canal treatment is known to be a tooth-saving procedure, most dental insurance companies will provide some coverage for the treatment. You might expect to have about 50% of the total cost covered by your plan. If you currently have a coverage policy, be sure to consult your provider or even our front desk team to understand how best to utilize your benefits.
Other Options for Making Root Canal Treatment Affordable
We understand that not everyone will have dental insurance, which is why we’re proud to offer alternative solutions to help patients achieve their smile goals without having to worry much about the price. Our team is partnered with CareCredit, which can help turn the overall cost of your treatment(s) into monthly installments. These plans also come with little to no interest, meaning you can save more while also preserving your natural pearly whites.
Root Canal FAQs
Can I Eat Before a Root Canal?
Yes, you can eat before a root canal procedure, and it's often recommended. Since your mouth will be numb for a few hours afterward, having a meal before the appointment can help keep you comfortable. Opt for a balanced meal with protein and carbohydrates to maintain your energy levels. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, as they can affect your comfort and anxiety levels during the procedure. After the root canal, you'll want to avoid chewing on the treated side until the numbness wears off to prevent injury. We dentist might suggest soft foods for the next few days while the area heals.
The only exception is sedation; if you’re being sedated during your procedure, you might want to fast beforehand in order to counter nausea.
Do I Need Antibiotics Before or After My Root Canal?
Antibiotics are not typically required before or after a root canal unless there's an active infection that could spread or if you have certain medical conditions. We may prescribe antibiotics if:
- You have a severe infection or abscess that needs to be controlled before the procedure.
- You have a weakened immune system or a condition like a heart issue that requires antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent complications.
After the root canal, antibiotics are generally unnecessary unless complications arise, such as persistent infection or swelling. Always follow our guidance and inform us about your medical history to ensure the safest treatment plan.
Can Root Canals Be Prevented?
Yes, root canals can often be prevented with proper oral care and regular dental visits. Here’s how:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
- Regular Check-ups: Regular dental visits allow us to catch issues early before they require extensive treatment like a root canal.
- Avoid Sugary Foods: Minimize sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can erode enamel and lead to cavities.
- Use Fluoride: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent decay.
- Treat Cavities Early: Address small cavities with fillings before they progress to the tooth's pulp, which would necessitate a root canal.
Taking these preventive measures reduces your risk of needing root canal therapy.
Do Root Canals Ever Have to Be Redone?
Yes, root canals sometimes need to be redone, a process known as root canal retreatment. This can happen if the initial procedure didn’t fully eliminate all the infection or debris, allowing bacteria to persist and cause reinfection. Additionally, a new infection can develop if there’s decay or a fracture that re-exposes the tooth to bacteria.
Problems with the crown, such as leakage or damage, can also allow bacteria to enter and necessitate retreatment. In some cases, the tooth's complex root anatomy may make it difficult to clean thoroughly in one treatment. If symptoms like pain or swelling recur in a previously treated tooth, we may recommend retreatment to preserve the tooth and prevent further issues.
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