Root canals seem to be very complicated procedures, and many people fear this treatment. A root canal is also known as endodontic treatment. This treatment is usually done on a badly damaged tooth, and it involves the killing of the bacteria inside the tooth. Endodontic treatment helps to eliminate and prevent more Bacteria infections inside the tooth.
You might be required to go for two appointments to finalize the root canal treatment. The number of appointments will vary depending on the state of the tooth and the needs of the patient. Most people shy away from root canal treatment because they feel it might be an extremely painful procedure. The funny thing is that a root canal is less painful compared to root extraction. Some are just scared of the high costs of the procedure.
When Do You Need a Root Canal?
You might be wondering if it’s the right time for you to get an endodontic treatment. Read on to find out if there’s a need for you to go for this treatment.
Cavities are the main cause of many dental problems. If you have a bad cavity that is untreated, you might be harbouring Bacteria infection, which might be stressful. An infected cavity can cause a lot of pain to you, which may compel your dentist to extract the tooth. If you do not want to uproot the tooth, choosing a root canal treatment can be wise.
What Happens When You Go for The Root Canal Procedure?
- The dentist will inject the tooth area with local anesthesia to numb the gum and the tooth area. This is done to ensure that you do not feel any pain during the procedure.
- Using tools, your dentist will drill the tooth to create an opening, which will help him access the inner part of the tooth. The tools used for drilling look like a tiny drill. Your tooth will be filed to remove the damaged pulp in the tooth.
- The dentist will then use water to clean the tooth thoroughly to remove any pieces of pulp that remained in the tooth.
- A solution can be used to kill bacteria inside the tooth. After the tooth is cleaned and treated with a microbial solution, your dentist will fill the chamber using gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is a rubber-like filler that is commonly used to fill the tooth during root canals.
- After the filling, your dentist will cover the tooth with a temporary filling.
After a few days, you will be required to go for your second appointment, whereby your dentist will place a permanent crown on your tooth.
How Do You Take Care of Your Tooth After A Root Canal?
- It’s obvious you need to take care of your teeth regularly, but you should be extra careful with your gums after endodontic treatment.
- The biggest trick is to ensure that you maintain good oral hygiene by flossing and brushing your teeth at least twice every day.
- Pay your dentist with regular visits. This will help your dentist to identify damaged cavities earlier before it gets too late.
- Avoid cold hard foods so that you don’t damage the treated tooth.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
Different states in Canada have different charges when it comes to root canal treatment. Many factors determine the cost of root canal in Canada. However, in most provinces, a root canal can cost you as low as $800 and as high as $2250 with a porcelain crown.
In the United States, the cost of a root canal is $500-$1,500 according to Express Dentist.
Factors That Determine the Costs of Root Canal in Canada
- Level of Damage
The severity of the damage on your tooth will determine the costs you will incur doing a root canal.
- The Location of the Tooth
The molars and incisors have different kinds of roots. It might cost you more to undergo a root canal treatment on a molar than it would have been on incisors because molars have more roots.
- Experience
If you get your root canal done by a specialist, be sure to cough more than when a dentist would have charged you.
- Type of Crown or Filling
For maximum protection of the tooth, a crown must be fixed on top of the tooth. The type of material used on the crown or fillings can hike the cost of a root canal. A crown made of metal and porcelain is the most expensive of all crowns.
A root canal is an effective way of treating cavities and badly damaged teeth. Formally, many people preferred extraction in Canada. As the years passed, many people have embraced the root canal because it gave them the chance to retain their natural teeth, unlike extraction. If you want to get a root canal done on you, consider choosing fillings and crowns that are affordable and give you good service. Consult your dentist for further consultations on what is good for you.
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