Root canal treatment has been performed regularly since the early 19th century. Over 25 million endodontic treatments are performed every year. Many published articles of scientific research have looked at the lasting health effects and found no long-term health risks associated with root canal treatment. The American Medical Association, American Dental Association and the National [...]
Although root canal procedures are intended to help save your tooth, this is not always possible. Often, the only alternative to endodontic treatment is extraction of the tooth. Missing teeth can affect your ability to chew, cause other healthy teeth to shift, and have a negative impact on your overall health.
New trauma, deep decay, or a cracked or broken restoration can cause new infection in your tooth. Lack of proper disinfection or lack of infected tissue removal from the first root canal can also cause the need for an endodontic retreatment.
Root canal treatment is a predictable procedure with a success rate of up to 95%. As with any medical or dental treatment, occasionally teeth do not respond to traditional root canal therapy. There are specific factors that can increase or decrease the success of root canal treatment. We will thoroughly discuss our long-term expectations for [...]
The majority of endodontically treated teeth last as long as other teeth. Occasionally, a tooth that has undergone endodontic treatment may not heal properly or the tooth may become painful or diseased months or years after successful treatment. When this occurs, the tooth can often be maintained with a second endodontic treatment or surgery.
All of our rooms are equipped with nitrous oxide (laughing gas). If you are nervous about the procedure please let us know so that we can take the extra steps to alleviate your anxiety. While were are able to painlessly and comfortably treat most of our patients with local anesthetic and nitrous oxide, there are [...]
The cost of root canal treatment varies depending on which tooth is affected and the complexity of the treatment. Molars are more difficult to treat thus the fee is usually higher. Generally, endodontic treatment and restoration of the natural tooth are less expensive than the alternative: tooth extraction and replacement with a bridge or an [...]
In most cases we will have a copy of a recent X-ray provided to us by your dentist. Additional X-rays will most likely be required to properly make a diagnosis. This may include a 3-D scan if your case is especially complex. Please understand that X-rays are the primary means by which endodontists are able [...]
We will take every measure to ensure that your procedure is comfortable and painless. We will inject a small amount of anesthetic to gently numb a concentrated area of your mouth. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after 2-3 hours. Your tooth may feel sensitive for two to seven days after treatment. [...]
In most cases you will need to see your general dentist for follow-up care after the root canal has been completed. Many teeth will require a crown to protect the tooth after endodontic therapy is performed. In some circumstances our office will be able to provide the final restoration.