Root Canal & Endodontics in East Detroit

Are Root Canals Common Procedures?

Root canal surgery is a very common endodontic procedure that can often be completed in one office visit that can take up to two hours. The dentist or specialist will remove damaged or infected pulp from your tooth and alleviate the severe pain that can occur as a result of the damaged tooth pulp.

How Would I Know If I Needed a Root Canal Procedure?

Unlike other parts of the body, teeth can’t heal themselves. If there’s damage or decay, then it will need to be removed by a root canal dentist. If you have any of the following symptoms, then you may need to schedule a dental root canal treatment:

• One or more discolored teeth
• Deep cavities or discolored teeth
• Swelling or inflammation in the area of a particular tooth
• Pain that ranges from moderate to excruciating
• Nighttime pain that regularly disturbs your sleep
• Temperature sensitivity
• Pain when you chew or bite down

The presence of any of these symptoms may indicate the need for a root canal, so call our East Detroit office to schedule a consultation.

What Types of Dentists Perform Root Canals?

Most general dentists can perform routine root canals in their offices. However, if you have a complicated procedure, it may be necessary to refer you to an endodontic specialist. An endodontist has additional training in the care and treatment of the interior of teeth. Most standard procedures, though, can usually be completed in one session that takes less than two hours. If you need an endodontic procedure or have additional questions, then call our East Detroit office and we’ll be happy to help you.

What’s the Procedure for Getting a Root Canal?

Most routine root canals are completed within two hours and will likely follow the procedure outlined below:

1. Your dentist will numb the area surrounding the tooth so that you won’t feel any pain.
2. Next, we’ll put a small, protective shield around the tooth so that it’s protected and kept clean.
3. Your dentist will drill a small hole in the top of the tooth so that we can access the damaged area.
4. The painful pulp will be removed, we’ll clean the area, and then we’ll shape the canals.
5. The canals will be rinsed and disinfected.
6. Next, we’ll fill the canals with gutta-percha and then we’ll seal them.
7. Finally, we’ll install a root canal crown to ensure that your tooth doesn’t crack.

Your procedure may vary slightly according to your individual needs, but the above steps are a guideline. You may experience minor discomfort for the remainder of the day after your procedure, but this can be managed easily, ask your dentist for more information. Your tooth and jaw should return to full, pain-free functionality within a day or two. Call our East Detroit office if you need to schedule an appointment or want more information.

Are Root Canals Very Expensive?

The cost of your procedure will be unique to you and will be influenced by several factors such as the number, type, and location of the teeth involved, any additional treatments that are needed, your insurance benefits, and whether a specialist was needed. During your initial consultation, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive estimate of the work that you need and the associated fees so that you’ll know your exact root canal cost. If you need endodontic surgery but can’t afford it, let us know and we’ll work with you, but don’t forego needed dental work because of financial constraints.

How Many Types of Root Canals Are There?

Most root canals performed are standard procedures completed by a general dentist. But, if you’re redoing a previous procedure, you may need an apicoectomy, which removes the tip of a root. The dentist or endodontist may also suggest a pediatric pulpotomy, which removes the damaged pulp but doesn’t affect the nerves. Your dentist will advise you of the type of procedure that you need during your appointment in our East Detroit office.

Is There a Lot of Pain During Root Canals?

Although root canals are notoriously associated with pain, it isn’t an accurate association. We do our utmost to ensure that your procedure is as painless as possible, and we’ll continue to monitor your comfort level throughout the procedure. We have a reputation in the East Detroit community for our high-quality, affordable dental procedures. We do our best to maintain our customer-centric reputation, so you know you’ll receive the best treatment we can provide. If you need a root canal in East Detroit, then call Gentle Dental at Gratiot Avenue at (313) 925-3090 to schedule an appointment and regain your pain-free lifestyle. Call us today, we look forward to speaking with you.