Save Your Tooth and Relieve Discomfort
When a cavity is left untreated, bacteria can reach the pulp inside your tooth, causing a painful infection that can worsen and spread. A root canal stops the infection and alleviates discomfort by removing the infected tissue and filling the cavity. This procedure not only saves your tooth but also preserves the surrounding bone and gum tissue, maintaining your oral health.
Root canals involve minimal discomfort and provide immediate relief from the pain of infection.
You may need a root canal if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Severe toothache
- Red or swollen gums near the tooth
- Tooth discolouration
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
What to Expect During a Root Canal
A root canal is typically a straightforward procedure, usually completed in one or two visits to the office. Here’s what to expect:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
Before starting your root canal treatment, your dentist will identify the cause of your symptoms. This begins with an X-ray of your tooth and surrounding bone to locate the source of the infection. If significant inflammation is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce swelling before operating on the infected area.
Preparing the Tooth
To ensure comfort during your root canal, we numb the infected area with a local anesthetic, followed by freezing the gums, teeth, and surrounding tissue. Once you’re completely numb, the dentist will drill a small access hole into your tooth, remove the infected tissue, and thoroughly clean and disinfect the area.
Sealing the Tooth
For severe infections, we might apply medication to the infected area. If a follow-up visit is necessary, a temporary filling will be applied. However, in most cases, once the infected tissue is removed and the tooth is clean, a permanent filling is applied, and the tooth is sealed.
The Cost of a Root Canal in Guelph
The cost of a root canal in Guelph varies based on several factors. With typical insurance, you can expect to pay around $200 to $500+ out of pocket. After an oral exam, we can provide an accurate quote for your insurance company to determine your actual out-of-pocket costs. Without insurance, the cost ranges from $600 to $1200+.
The actual cost depends on:
- The severity of the infection
- The location of the infection
- The health of surrounding teeth and gums
- Any complications that may require more time or expertise
It’s important to note that no dental practice can provide an accurate quote online or over the phone. Every patient’s dental condition is unique, so a consultation with a dentist is necessary to evaluate your situation and present all your treatment options.
Is There an Alternative to Root Canals?
An abscess or infection in your tooth is extremely dangerous and requires urgent care. Root canals remove infections that can worsen and spread, potentially becoming life-threatening and requiring more invasive care. This is why we strive to dispel the negative reputation of root canal therapy and prioritize your comfort and peace of mind.
If you suspect an infection but are hesitant about a root canal, we encourage you to reach out to us. We will not perform any procedure without your full understanding and consent and may offer alternative options to resolve your infection.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Damage can occur due to deep decay, trauma, a dead nerve, a loose filling or crown, or a crack or chip in the tooth.
Thanks to modern techniques, advanced technology, and a compassionate dental philosophy, our highly trained team of dentists and hygienists can perform root canal treatments with minimal to no pain.
By the time you realize you need a root canal, your tooth pulp and nerve have already begun to decay. This infected tissue will never fully heal and will only become reinfected. Removing the pulp is the only safe option.
A root canal treatment typically requires one or two office visits. Simple or minor cases usually take about 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases can take around 90 minutes.
That depends on what sort of insurance coverage you have. After a consultation, we can provide you with an estimate to send to your provider. We strongly encourage you to make a root canal a high priority. Please speak to us if you feel any hesitation.
You typically need a dental crown after a root canal on your back teeth, such as molars and premolars. However, front teeth, including canines and incisors, may not require a dental crown.
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