Non-Surgical Root Canal Therapy in Littleton, Co
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, with over 14 million being performed every year. This simple, pain free treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.
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 these symptoms, 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. We use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort.
How Much Will it Cost?
The cost associated with a root canal procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth or implant.
After The Procedure - Home Care For A Root Canal
After your procedure, you will be sent home with instructions for pain management and how to care for your tooth during recovery. Before you leave, your dentist may schedule a follow up visit to review how you're healing.
After the procedure, and as the numbing medication starts to wear off, you may feel some slight soreness or tenderness in the area for a few days as the healing process begins. You may also experience some mild soreness in your jaw from keeping your mouth open for an extended amount of time during the procedure. These temporary symptoms are usually treatable with over-the-counter medication, but your dentist may write you a prescription for additional pain medication. It’s important to carefully follow the instructions and take any medications as prescribed.
Though you may experience a slightly different sensation from your treated tooth than your other teeth for some time, you should contact your dentist immediately if you start experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Severe pain or pressure lasting more than a few days
- Visible swelling inside or outside your mouth
- Your bite feels uneven
- The temporary crown or filling comes out (if a temporary was placed)
- Any of the symptoms you experienced prior to treatment return (sensitivity to temperatures, pain, etc.)
Do You Need A Root Canal?
If you're experiencing serious teeth pain when eating , pressure on a specific tooth/area, or sensitivity to hot or cold, you may need a root canal. Contact our office today for an appointment, and get out of pain.