English 
Spanish If you asked 100 people which dental procedure they fear the most, it’s a good bet that many of them would say, “A root canal.” Root canal therapy has an undeserved reputation for being a procedure to avoid. The stereotypes about root canals lead many to believe that the procedure is lengthy and painful. However, the association between root canals and pain likely stems from outdated practices and the fact that infected root canals can be quite painful. Fortunately, modern advancements in dental techniques and technology make root canals no more painful than a normal dental procedure. In fact, root canals save infected teeth and eliminate discomfort!
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure designed to remove infected pulp from the innermost part of the tooth, preventing further decay and providing immediate pain relief. The pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels, can become infected through deep cavities, repeated dental procedures, cracks, or dental trauma. Ignoring the infection can lead to severe pain, abscesses, and even tooth loss.
A root canal has two main goals: to save your original tooth and provide relief from pain. We achieve these goals by removing the infected material, cleaning the inside of the tooth, filling and sealing it, and then placing a dental crown to protect it and prevent further infection.
The notion of root canal therapy being painful is an outdated stereotype. Today, the procedure is performed with advanced techniques and effective anesthesia, making it no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. In fact, the purpose of the treatment is to relieve pain caused by the infection. Despite its poor reputation, patients often report immediate relief from discomfort following the procedure.
Signs You Might Need Root Canal Therapy
You should seek out a dentist—like Dr. Amelia Aristodemo—if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling, tenderness, or pimples on the gums
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth, possibly indicating decay
- A chipped or cracked tooth that’s causing pain
- A feeling of pressure or fullness in the affected tooth
These symptoms suggest potential damage or infection of the dental pulp that root canal therapy can treat.
What To Expect During the Procedure
The root canal therapy process takes place over one or two dental visits.
- Treatment planning: Dr. Aristodemo will give your mouth a thorough examination, answer any questions, and take an X-ray to determine the extent of the infection.
- Cleaning and shaping: When it’s time for the procedure, we’ll apply a local anesthetic to numb the area. Then, Dr. Aristodemo will create an opening in the top of the tooth and remove the infected pulp. She’ll then clean and shape the empty cavity for the filling.
- Filling and crowning: We’ll fill the empty area inside the tooth with a material called gutta-percha. Then, a dental filling will seal the tooth, and a dental crown will go over the top to protect the tooth and restore its functionality.
Once the procedure is over, you may feel some temporary soreness, but you should be able to quickly return to your normal activities.
How Much Does Root Canal Therapy Cost?
Concerns about the cost of a root canal are common, but financial constraints shouldn’t keep you from receiving necessary dental care. During your first visit, we’ll go through your insurance information so you know exactly what’s covered. For patients without dental insurance, we offer an in-house discount program that provides savings on many of our dental services.
We also partner with multiple financing companies that provide affordable monthly payment plans, making this procedure affordable to any budget. At Happy Smile Family Dentistry, our goal is to demystify insurance and financing, ensuring you can access the care you need without undue stress.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Root canal therapy is an effective and gentle option for treating infected teeth, preserving your natural smile, and preventing further dental complications. By staying at the forefront of modern dentistry with state-of-the-art techniques, we ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. Don’t let anxiety or misconceptions about pain deter you from seeking treatment. Contact us today to schedule your visit and experience how a root canal can help you achieve a healthier smile.
