Root canals & endodontics in Commack and Dix Hills

Root Canal: What Is This Dental Surgery?

Before you can learn that you have nothing to fear from a root canal, you first have to know what it is. This operation, which many dentists refer to as endodontic treatment, is the act of removing infected tissue from within your tooth. This tissue can become infected in a number of ways, but it most often happens as a result of a bad cavity that has allowed bacteria to enter your tooth. Once the tissue within the tooth becomes infected, it can be extremely painful.

Just keep in mind that bad cavities aren't the only way that pulp tissue can become exposed. A good example is trauma to your tooth. Sometimes, trauma can cause a crack in your tooth, and just like with a cavity, bacteria can enter into your tooth via this crack. If you don't get the cracked tooth fixed, it can eventually lead to needing endodontic treatment.

How Do You Know You Need a Root Canal Procedure?

You will only know that you need a dental root canal treatment after visiting a dentist. However, there are a few symptoms that may indicate you need to visit your dentist to have your tooth looked at.

The best indication that something is wrong is pain. Thus, if you are experiencing a lot of pain within your tooth, it's a good idea to have it looked at by a dentist. Even if you don't need endodontic treatment, the dentist can at least let you know what is causing that pain and offer the appropriate care.

Are you or a loved one experiencing pain in one or more teeth? If so, you should schedule an appointment to see one of our dental professionals at Helfner Dental Associates. We will do an oral exam and determine the source of the pain. If you need endodontic treatment, we provide those services at reasonable costs.

What Happens During a Dental Root Canal Operation?

When you go in for endodontic treatment, you will be happy to learn that it's not very complicated. In fact, it's a normal procedure that the dentist does all the time. In most cases, you will be in and out of the dentist's office in less than two hours. Of course, the time it takes to complete the surgery depends heavily on the size of the tooth and how much preparation the dentist has to do.

The first step during endodontic treatment is to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. This is simply to make sure that you feel no discomfort during the operation. From there, the dentist will open the top of the infected tooth. Then, using special tools, the dentist will remove the infected tissue.

With most of the tissue removed, a special disinfecting fluid is sprayed into the tooth to clean it. This also removes any remaining debris. Afterward, the dentist will fill your tooth with gutta-percha, a dental rubber. With the tooth filled, the procedure is ended by the dentist capping your tooth with a root canal crown for stability and strength.

Your Root Canal Cost

While the cost does vary between dental offices, you should note that the surgery is affordable most of the time. If you have dental insurance, there will be lower out-of-pocket costs because most dental plans will partially cover root canal procedures.

If you would like to learn more about the treatment cost, give us a call. Our friendly staff members will be happy to figure up a rough estimate for this procedure. Just remember that the actual cost can only be determined after an oral examination.

Visit Us Today

Now is the time to alleviate the pain in your tooth. Come see us to find out if you need a root canal. The operation is not only safe but also affordable. Call now so that we can schedule a consultation.