Root Canal and Endodontics in Davenport

What is a Root Canal?

The inner part of your tooth contains a soft pulp consisting of blood vessels and nerves. If this pulp becomes infected or the tooth is severely decayed, you’ll likely experience pain, swelling or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. A root canal procedure, sometimes referred to as an endodontic procedure, removes that pulp, relieving your symptoms and restoring the tooth.

When Is a Root Canal Necessary?

Infected or decayed dental pulp tissue doesn’t repair itself. Here are a few signs your tooth requires treatment:

• Persistent tooth pain
• Pain when chewing or biting down
• Tooth discoloration or deep cavities
• Gum swelling or a persistent gum pimple
• Extreme sensitivity to temperature or touch

What Type of Dentist Performs Root Canals?

A general dentist may perform this procedure, or you may seek treatment with a specialist called an endodontist. Endodontists specialize in tooth pulp disorders and typically handle complicated cases and those where a second dental root canal is needed. We are happy to schedule you an appointment with a root canal dentist, so call us today.

What is the Procedure for a Root Canal?

• First, your dentist numbs the gum around your tooth with a gel. Then, an anesthetic is injected to fully numb your teeth, gums and tongue in the affected area. It may take a few minutes for this numbing to take effect. Once your gums and teeth are numbed, the dentist will:
• Place a small shield of rubber around the tooth to keep the area clean.
• Make an opening in your tooth’s crown to access the pulp.
• Remove the pulp, clean the pulp chamber and shape the root area.
• Place fluid in the canals to remove debris and disinfect the area.
• Fill the canals and seal them.
• Place a root canal crown on the tooth.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of this procedure varies according to the severity of your tooth’s damage, how much pre-treatment you need and the number of roots in the tooth. Costs also vary according to whether your procedure is performed by an endodontist or general dentist. Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost of the procedure. Your dentist will give you an estimate of the cost following a thorough evaluation. Call our office to book an appointment.

What Different Types of Root Canals Are Available?

This procedure can be effective for any tooth, although it is most commonly performed on molars. Sometimes, if infection persists, an apicoectomy is done to remove the tip, or apex, of the tooth’s root and fill it.

What Does Dental Root Canal Treatment Entail?

Some patients may be uneasy about this treatment, thinking that it might be painful. Fortunately, local anesthetics help keep you comfortable throughout the treatment. If you are suffering from a painful tooth or if you have other symptoms, don’t delay treatment. Call our office to find relief with a root canal in Davenport.