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The Process of Root Canal Treatment

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A root canal is a procedure used to treat a tooth that has become infected or inflamed in the pulp chamber, the area that contains the nerves and blood vessels of the tooth. The infection can be caused by various factors, including tooth decay, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the tooth. If the infection is not treated, it can cause an abscess, severe pain, and, eventually, tooth loss.

Removing infected or diseased pulp

The root canal procedure consists of removing the infected and dying pulp from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the inside, and filling and sealing the root canals to prevent further infection. The procedure is typically done in one or two visits and can usually be completed in one hour.

During the procedure, the dentist or endodontist will open the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. They will then use small instruments, such as files, to remove the infected pulp. Next, the root canals will be cleaned and disinfected to remove any remaining bacteria. After the canals are cleaned and shaped, a sealer paste is used with a small rubber-like material called gutta-percha to fill the canals. This material will be used to help to prevent bacteria from re-entering the canals.

The foundation of a tooth: build up and possible crown.

Once the root canals are filled and sealed, the tooth becomes weak and more susceptible to fracture. The dentist will recommend a buildup and a crown to protect the tooth and restore its function. A tooth buildup can be made of various materials such as resin-based composite or glass ionomer. It’s used to build up the remaining tooth structure after the root canal to provide a good foundation for the crown.

A crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the remaining tooth structure to protect it and restore its shape and function. Crowns can be made of different materials such as metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), all-porcelain, zirconia, or ceramic.

The combination of root canal treatment with a build-up and crown will help to save the tooth and prevent further complications; also, it will help to restore the full function of the tooth and to improve its esthetics.

Cost of root canal therapy

Root canals can be a costly procedure, but they are ultimately worth it because they save a natural tooth from extraction. Extraction can lead to more extensive and costly procedures such as dental implants or bridges. A root canal procedure can also alleviate pain and prevent further infection, which can save patients from additional health complications. Additionally, an endodontist who specializes in root canal treatment can use advanced equipment and techniques to increase the success rate of the procedure, leading to better long-term outcomes. In summary, while a root canal may have a high initial cost, it can save a significant amount of money and improve overall oral health in the long run. Please see this article for more information.

Diagnosis

Dr. Phan will perform a specialist consultation, evaluate your teeth, and present a treatment plan to help save your tooth. Please see more here.

The Cost of a Root Canal:

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Differences between Dentists and Specialists

In general, a root canal procedure performed by a specialist, such as an endodontist, may cost more than a procedure performed by a general dentist. This is because endodontists are specifically trained to perform root canal procedures and have a higher level of expertise. Additionally, they may use specialized equipment such as operating microscopes and Cone Beam CT (CBCT) imaging technology, which can make the procedure more efficient and accurate.

The use of operating microscope during the procedure can help the endodontist to have a better visualization of the root canal, which can make the procedure more efficient, accurate and with a higher success rate. Using the microscope, the endodontist can identify and treat more intricate and complex cases that general dentists may not be able to handle.

On the other hand, CBCT is a type of 3D X-ray imaging that provides detailed images of the teeth, jaws and surrounding structures. This technology allows the endodontist to view the entire tooth, including the root canals, in a single scan, providing them with detailed information about the shape, number and curvature of the roots. This technology can also help to identify any potential anatomical variations or complications that may affect the treatment and outcome of the root canal procedure.

Endodontists may also have specialized training to manage patients with special needs, for instance patients with a high level of anxiety or dental phobia, and may use techniques such as sedation to make the procedure more comfortable for the patient.

The additional expertise and specialized equipment used by endodontists can result in a higher success rate for root canal procedures, less pain during the procedure and less failure after the procedure.

The cost difference can range between 20-50% more than general dentists. The average cost for a Specialist root canal in the South Bay on a front tooth is between $1300-1500. The cost for a molar tooth can range from $1300 to $2200. These are approximate figures and can vary depending on the expertise of the providers, the use of special technology, and the case’s complexity.

It’s worth noting that the cost of a root canal procedure can be covered by dental insurance plans, so it’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider and ask if it’s covered or not, and if there are any requirements, co-pays or deductibles to meet. Also, dental school clinics can be a more affordable option, they are run by dental students under the supervision of licensed dentists.

In case you’re struggling to afford the cost of the procedure, it’s important to talk to your dentist and ask about financial assistance, payment plans or alternative treatment options that may be more affordable for you.

Sedation & Pain-Free Root Canal

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Sedation dentistry, also known as pain-free sedation, is a technique that utilizes medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. This can include oral sedation, inhaled sedation (nitrous oxide), and IV sedation. This method benefits patients who experience anxiety, fear, or phobia about dental procedures.

Sedation dentistry helps patients to relax and reduce their stress levels. They will be in a state of consciousness where they can respond to verbal commands, but they will feel more relaxed and less aware of the procedures. In some cases, they may not even remember the procedure.

The use of sedation dentistry can have a positive impact on a patient’s dental health. It can encourage patients who have been avoiding the dentist due to fear or anxiety to keep their appointments and maintain their dental regimen.

According to the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, it’s estimated that 30% of the population avoids the dentist due to fear. By offering pain-free sedation as an option during procedures such as fillings or root canals, dental professionals can give patients the comfort and reassurance they need to keep those appointments and avoid more severe dental issues in the future.

How does sedation help during a root canal procedure?

Sedation dentistry can be especially beneficial during a lengthy root canal procedure. Root canal treatment typically involves multiple steps, including removing the infected pulp, cleaning and shaping the root canals, and filling and sealing the canals.

A lengthy root canal procedure can be uncomfortable and cause anxiety and fear in patients who are already nervous about dental procedures. Sedation dentistry can help to reduce these feelings and make the process more comfortable for the patient.

The use of sedation can help reduce pain and discomfort and make the patient feel more relaxed and at ease. It also can make the procedure go smoother as the patient is more flexible, leading to less movement during the process and making it easier for the dentist to work. This can help shorten the procedure’s overall duration and provide a better outcome.

In addition, sedation dentistry can be beneficial for patients who have difficulty staying still or have a strong gag reflex during the procedure. The patient’s reduced awareness and increased relaxation can help make the process more manageable and less stressful for the patient.

Dr. Phan will evaluate your medical history and condition to see if you are a candidate for this additive procedure, and it is essential to note that it may not be suitable for all patients.

Root Canal Failure:

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Root canal failure refers to the inability of the root canal treatment to eliminate the infection and save the tooth. While root canal treatment has a high success rate, the procedure may not be successful in some cases. There are several causes of root canal failure, including:

Missed or inaccessible canals: During the root canal procedure, the dentist must locate and treat all of the canals in the tooth. In some cases, canals may be missed or are too small or curved to be accessed, allowing bacteria to remain in the tooth and leading to re-infection. An endodontist is specifically trained to locate and treat all the canals in the tooth by using specialized equipment such as a microscope, ultrasound, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), which help in locating and treating those hard-to-reach areas
Incomplete filling or sealing of the canals: After the canals have been cleaned and disinfected, they need to be filled and sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering the tooth. If the canals are not properly filled or sealed, bacteria can continue to thrive in the tooth, leading to re-infection. Endodontists have the knowledge and skills to properly clean and seal the canals to prevent bacteria from re-entering the tooth.
Inadequate post-treatment care: After the root canal procedure, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and receive regular check-ups and x-rays to ensure that the tooth is healing properly. Failing to do so can lead to re-infection. An endodontist will provide detailed instructions on how to take care of your tooth after the procedure, and they may schedule follow-up appointments to ensure the tooth is healing properly.
Overfilled canals: Overfilling canals may result in a more significant apical constriction and ultimately lead to the failure of the root canal. An endodontist will have the knowledge and skill to determine the appropriate amount of filling material that should be used to avoid overfilling the canals.
Fractured or Broken tooth: A fractured tooth will most likely lead to the failure of the root canal as it will be hard to clean the canals, and once the tooth is sealed, bacteria may remain and infect the tooth again. Endodontists have the knowledge and skills to treat a fracture or broken tooth, known as Endodontic Microsurgery, and it’s a technique that can save teeth that were once thought to be hopeless.

Symptoms of root canal failure can include:

Persistent pain or sensitivity in the tooth, even after the root canal procedure
Swelling, redness, or tenderness in the gums around the tooth
A pimple-like bump on the gums near the tooth
Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
A lingering bad taste or odor in the mouth

If you experience any of these symptoms after a root canal procedure, you must get it evaluated immediately. Dr. Phan will use all available tools to diagnose and treat your failing root canal, but in some cases of root canal failure, the tooth may need to be retreated or extracted.

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