What is a root canal?

Over 14 million people require root canals every year, making it one of the most common dental procedures performed. A root canal is a complex but relatively painless treatment when performed by a skilled endodontist, who can save your natural teeth and prevent any further need for dental implants or bridges.

Each one of your teeth has a pulp at its center. The pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps construct the surrounding components of the tooth. Infection or inflammation of the pulp can be caused by dental decay, a cracked or broken tooth, or a traumatic injury to the tooth.

A root canal procedure is meant to protect the tooth from further damage caused by the infection of inflammation of the pulp.The intensity of the pain ranges from mild to severe. If you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment to see Dr. Dholakiya.

General symptoms typically include:

• Tooth pain or sensitivity
• Gum pain or sensitivity
• Swelling of the tooth
• Sensitivity to hot foods or liquids

What is treatment like?

A root canal procedure, or endodontic treatment, usually involves local anesthesia. Dr. Dholakiya uses a drill to remove the infected pulp. The inside of the tooth is delicately cleaned and disinfected then filled and sealed with gutta-percha, a material similar to rubber. After that part of the procedure, the tooth is fitted with a crown or filling for extra protection. The tooth then functions normally like the surrounding teeth.

There’s minimal discomfort associated with the procedure. A root canal can typically be completed in one or two visits to Dr. Dholakiya, depending on a variety of factors including the condition of the tooth. A root canal helps many natural functions of your tooth, including:

• Efficient chewing
• Normal biting force and sensation
• Natural appearance
• Protection from too much wear or strain

What happens after treatment?

After root canal therapy, Dr. Dholakiya sends a record of your treatment to your restorative, or general dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of your root canal therapy. Your restorative dentist determines what type of restoration is best to properly protect your tooth.

It’s rare for endodontic treatment patients to experience complications after a routine treatment like a root canal. If a problem does occur, Dr. Dholakiya is always available to respond. To prevent future tooth decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.

How much does it cost?

The cost of root canal therapy varies depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is far less expensive than tooth removal and artificial tooth replacement.