Root Canal Opelika AL
If you are experiencing pain in your tooth, it may be a sign that you need root canal treatment. Endodontic treatment, also known as root canal therapy, is a procedure that saves teeth when they are severely injured, cracked, or decayed. Don’t wait until the problem gets worse – schedule an appointment with our office today! We will provide you with root canal treatment in Opelika, AL.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a treatment used to save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. The procedure involves removing the damaged tissue from inside the tooth and cleaning it out to prevent infection.
Why do I need root canal treatment?
There are many reasons why you may need root canal treatment, but the most common reason is because the pulp (the soft inner tissue inside a tooth’s root canal) becomes inflamed or infected. If this is not treated promptly, pain or a tooth abscess (infection) can result. The problem will continue to worsen until action is taken.
Is root canal treatment painful?
The procedure is designed to relieve pain that is caused by inflamed or infected pulp in your tooth. Our caring dentists will do their best to make you feel comfortable while they work on your infected tooth.
A tooth that needs a root canal can cause a lot of pain until it is treated by your dentist.
What are the steps involved in root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment usually takes one or two office visits, depending on the presence of infection and the required treatment plan. The first step is to remove the damaged tissue from inside the tooth. Once the area is clean, it will be sealed off to prevent further damage. After a root canal, your tooth will be restored and will function just like any other tooth.
Does a root canal kill the tooth?
No, root canal treatment does not kill the tooth. The infected nerves and blood vessels were important to the teeth as they developed in your youth. Once your adult teeth have come in, a root canal simply saves a tooth that was badly damaged or infected.
What are some symptoms I should look out for?
There are many symptoms that may indicate you need root canal treatment, including:
- Severe toothache pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling in the gums
- Tenderness in the gums
- Pus drainage
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait – schedule an appointment with our office today. Call us to schedule an appointment for root canal treatment in Opelika, AL at 334-749-5014.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many trips to the dentist will be required for my root canal treatment?
The number of appointments you will need for a root canal from start to finish may differ. But on average, there will be an initial consultation where the need for a root canal is determined, then another appointment for the procedure itself, and at least one follow-up appointment to make sure the infection is gone.
How much will the root canal procedure cost?
The cost of root canal procedures can differ between patients. The biggest factor is whether or not you have dental insurance and if so, whether or not a root canal procedure is covered by your plan. You can contact your dental insurance provider and our office for a pre-treatment cost estimate.
Would extraction (pulling the tooth) be a better alternative to root canal?
Saving your natural teeth, if possible, is the very best option. Nothing can completely replace your natural tooth. An artificial tooth can sometimes cause you to avoid certain foods. Keeping your own teeth is important so that you can continue to enjoy the wide variety of foods necessary to maintain the proper nutrient balance in your diet. If your dentist recommends extraction, ask whether root canal treatment is an option.
Endodontic treatment, along with appropriate restoration, is a cost-effective way to treat teeth with a damaged pulp and is usually less expensive than extraction and placement of a bridge or an implant. Endodontic treatment also has a very high success rate. Many root canal treated teeth last a lifetime. Placement of a bridge or an implant will require significantly more time in treatment and may result in further procedures to adjacent teeth and supporting tissues.
Can I Increase My Chances of a Successful Root Canal Procedure?
Yes! Following your provider’s post-treatment instructions and continuing to lightly brush and floss around the treatment area can help increase your chances of success. You’ll also want to reduce stress on the tooth by chewing on the opposite side of your mouth and avoiding crunchy or sticky foods. You can also inhibit dental bacteria from proliferating and stimulate healing by rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater.