Endodontic Procedures:
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Root Canal Treatment is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This
simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.
At the center of your tooth is the dental pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels and nerve tissue that helps to build
the surrounding tooth.
Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures.
Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature
(hot/cold food and liquids) or pain in the tooth and gums.
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How is a root canal performed?
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If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the
diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually
involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type
of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is
unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment.
We use local anesthesia to eliminate any and all discomfort.
You should be able to drive after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.
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What if I am very fearful of seeing the dentist?
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Pre-treatment with anti-anxiety medications (valium) is possible for fearful patients. We recommend scheduling a consultation
with the doctor first so we can discuss your concerns and explain the procedure to ease those concerns. Most people do very
well and are pleasantly surprised by the “root canal experience” in our office. After that consultation, if it is deemed
that pre-treatment with Valium is required, then a prescription will be given and another appointment scheduled for treatment.
With pre-treatment of Valium, somebody will need to drive you to and from the office on the day of the appointment.
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What happens after treatment?
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When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your
restorative (general) dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks
of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary
to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine
endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available to respond.
To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.
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How much will it cost?
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The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and
which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an
artificial tooth (either implant or bridge).
Please provide any and all insurance information. We strive to maximize your dental benefits to minimize your out-of-pocket
costs. You will be made aware of all fees to you. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call one of our
friendly front-office coordinators.
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