Root Canal Treatment - What You Need To Know

A root canal is a procedure that treats infection or inflammation inside a tooth. An infection or inflammation can be excruciating, and it can also impact your oral health. This infection can be caused by a deep cavity or a crack in the tooth. It can travel between the tooth and the gum, and it can even spread to the jaw bone.

During a root canal, your dentist will remove the infected tissue from the tooth, clean it, and fill it with a dental filling.

How Do Root Canal Infections Occur?

Root canal infections usually happen when bacteria resulting from severe tooth decay make their way into the center of the tooth. The bacteria can then multiply, causing an infection.

If left untreated, the infection can spread to the pulp tissue and surrounding bone structure. The bacteria may also release toxins that can damage the jawbone.

Symptoms of Root Canal Infection.

Root canal infection can cause pain and swelling in the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. You may also experience the following symptoms:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Pain while chewing
• Cracking at the tooth
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Swelling and tenderness in the gums
• Gum abscess
• A bad mouth odor
• An infected tooth
• Pain when biting or chewing
• A discolored tooth

What Does The Procedure Involve?

A root canal is a procedure used to remove any infection in the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the area within the center of the tooth that contains blood vessels, connective tissue, and nerves. If this area becomes infected, it can cause severe pain or lead to an abscess. 

A root canal is usually performed by a dentist or an endodontist. During a root canal procedure, the dentist will numb the tooth, then drill a hole into the pulp and remove the infected pulp. If tooth decay was the cause of the infection, the tooth would be filled. The tooth is then sealed with a crown, protecting the tooth from further damage.

What Are The Advantages of Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment costs can range between $500 and $3,000. This cost will vary based on a few factors, such as the severity of tooth damage and the dentist’s fees. However, this cost is much less than the cost of extraction and replacement of a tooth. If you compare the costs of root canal treatment to the cost of dental implants, the cost for implants will be much higher.

Additionally, root canal treatment may be covered by dental insurance. With dental insurance, you could receive coverage for 80% to 100% of treatment costs. However, it’s important to check with your dentist to see if treatment will be covered.

Plus, root canal treatment can relieve your toothache and dental pain. If you’ve struggled with severe tooth pain, root canal treatment can help. Once the treatment is completed, you’ll no longer feel any pain.

What Happens After A Root Canal?

After a root canal, your tooth may feel sensitive. This sensation is completely normal and may last a few days to a few weeks. During this time, avoid chewing on the affected tooth; instead, chew on the other side. You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen if needed.

Do you want to learn more about our dental services? Please book an appointment with Arden Dental Care Dentists at (916) 481-2001 or visit us at 1832 Avondale Ave Ste 1, Sacramento, CA 95825.