Non Surgical Root Canal

What is a root canal

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple 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, Dr. Adams will most likely recommend a 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. Dr Adams uses the WaveOne Gold reciprocating system which is an exciting new concept that quickly and efficiently prepares the root canal.  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. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a post and core and a filling or crown will be needed to protect the tooth. A post and core (known as a “post” or “dental post”) is a type of dental restoration used either to stabilize a weakened tooth or provide an anchor for a crown. Utilized when inadequate tooth structure remains to support a traditional restoration, it consists of the insertion of a small rod (known as a “post”) into the root space of an affected tooth, leaving several millimeters protruding. The protrusion is then used to support a large filling, or anchor a crown. 

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. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.