What is a Root Canal?

Root canals are some of the most common dental procedures. A root canal saves the natural tooth and can prevent the need for bridges or implants. 

You may need a root canal as a result of the inside layer of your tooth, or the pulp, being infected. The pulp is the softest layer of the tooth and contains all of the blood vessels that surround the tooth. Pulp infections can be caused by injury to the tooth, deep decay, cracks, chips, or damage from previous dental procedures. 

How is a Root Canal Performed?

If Dr. Lowenguth deems root canal treatment necessary, you will discuss options and treatment steps at a consultation. Most likely, we will recommend nonsurgical treatment. During the procedure, the diseased or injured pulp is removed and the root canal is sealed to prevent further infection. In over 90% of cases, this is effective.

What Happens After the Procedure? 

After a root canal procedure, you should be able to return to your normal routine quickly. We use a local anesthetic during the procedure and it should wear off within an hour or so. Records of the treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist, who will review them with you at a secondary appointment a few weeks post-procedure. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. 

If a problem does occur, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

We strive to make expert dental care affordable and accessible, and the cost of a root canal procedure varies from patient to patient depending on circumstance. In general, nonsurgical treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.