Root canal treatment may be one of the most common dental procedures, but it is also one of the most feared. When individuals hear that they require root canal treatment in SE Calgary, they often get very nervous due to the misconceptions surrounding root canal treatment. In this blog post, our team at Heritage Smiles Dental explains everything you need to know about root canal therapy to put these misconceptions and resulting anxieties to rest.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment near you involves the removal of damaged or infected pulp from the inside of your tooth. If left alone, infected or damaged pulp can progress and cause severe complications, leading to jawbone deterioration and tooth loss.
Poor oral health can lead to tooth decay, which leads to cavities. As a cavity progresses, the inner part of your tooth, known as the pulp, becomes affected. When you visit a dentist near you for a toothache, they will ask you about your symptoms to determine if you require root canal treatment.
How Does Root Canal Treatment Work?
Root canal treatment can take up to two visits to a dental clinic in SE Calgary. Each visit can take about an hour and a half because the procedure requires care and precision to ensure that your tooth is completely free of infection.
Contrary to popular belief, root canal treatment is not painful, and in fact, it is performed to alleviate your pain. During your appointments, your dentist will remove the infected pulp, disinfect your tooth, and seal it with the appropriate filling material. Finally, they will add a dental crown to the affected tooth to provide extra strength and support.
How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost?
There are a number of factors that go into the total cost of your root canal treatment. One such factor is where your affected tooth is located in your mouth. Since molars have more roots than incisors, they tend to be more costly to fix. Additionally, the severity of infection in the tooth will play a role in the cost.
Another factor that can play into the cost is your oral health history. If the affected tooth has already undergone treatment, then the second procedure may take longer and have more complications.
You will also need a dental crown after the root canal treatment, as we mentioned earlier. Dental crowns come with an additional cost. The best way to determine your entire cost is to speak to your dentist at your initial consultation and ask for an estimate.
Can You Prevent Infection and the Need for Root Canal Treatment?
Luckily, the answer to this question is a resounding yes. The best way to prevent tooth decay and cavity formation is by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. Additionally, it would help if you were sure to visit Heritage Smiles Dental at least once every six months for a professional dental cleaning and checkup. Doing these things will keep your mouth free of harmful bacteria and decay, promoting your oral health, and preventing the need for root canal treatment.
If you have any other questions or concerns about root canal treatment, please do not hesitate to contact our team. We are happy to address any concerns you may have.
