Root Canal Therapy / Endodontics

A root canal is commonly the most feared and least wanted dental procedure. Yet, a root canal is one of the most performed dental procedures – well over 14 million every year. In reality, it is a simple treatment that can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for tooth extractions, implants or bridges.

Our primary concern during your dental visit is your comfort. The fear of experiencing pain during a root canal is something that we deal with head on. Prior to any procedure, Dr. Mironov establishes two simple rules. First, we do not start until you are sufficiently numb. Second, we stop as soon as you request it. With these two ground rules, the doctor may: add more anesthesia during the procedure; allow more time for it to take effect; try a different anesthetic; or stop the procedure completely to possibly bring you back another day. If nothing else works, oral sedation may be an option. We go out of our way to make sure you feel next to nothing during your root canal or other commonly feared procedures.

WHY DO I NEED A ROOT CANAL?

At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.

HOW IS A ROOT CANAL PERFORMED?

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. Endodontic treatment is less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth, and is generally well covered by dental insurance plans.

list of related conditions

• dental abscess • tooth ache • sore tooth • broken teeth • fractured teeth • tooth infection • painful cavities • severe tooth sensitivity • accidents • trauma • swollen gums