When you are suffering from severe decay or infection in your tooth, then a root canal is your best option to save it. At Smile For Life, we pride ourselves on our highly trained staff, delivering top-end care to all our patients. Phone us today to discuss your dental health and find out if we recommend root canal treatment.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is performed to save a tooth that has been severely damaged by infection or decay. During a root canal procedure, your dentist will clean the ‘root canal’ of the affected tooth. This is the natural cavity in the center of the tooth. The nerve and pulp will be removed, along with decay-related debris, before the interior of the tooth is cleaned. Your dentist will then seal the tooth with a sealer paste and rubber compound to ensure that your tooth does not become infected again.

Why Are the Nerve and Pulp Removed?

Our dentist will remove the nerve and pulp during your root canal because when it is damaged bacteria will multiply within your tooth. These bacteria lead to infection or possibly painful tooth abscesses forming at the roots of your tooth. If this happens, you could suffer from facial swelling, dental bone loss, and dental drainage problems. The nerve is safe to remove because it is not vital to the function of an emerged adult tooth.

Are There Any Alternatives to a Root Canal?

There is no alternative to a root canal that can save your natural tooth. The only other option is to extract the damaged tooth and replace it with a bridge, implant, or partial denture.

Is a Root Canal Painful?

The root canal procedure has a reputation for being painful and unpleasant, but in reality, most people say the procedure itself is as comfortable as having a cavity filling. When you come in for your initial consultation with us at Smile For Life, our dentist will discuss what level of discomfort and pain you can expect during the surgery and all of our available options to keep you comfortable. We will also go over your aftercare plan to minimize post-procedural pain.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of your root canal will vary depending on the location of the tooth and the severity of the damage. At your consultation, our dentist will go over in detail the cost of your treatment plan. At Smile For Life, we pride ourselves on delivering high-end and affordable dental care to all of our patients. We have finance options available to help you to pay if needed. Call today to talk to us and determine if a root canal is necessary and get back to a life without tooth pain.