FAQs

An endodontist is a specialist in the field of dentistry, having completed two additional years of training focused on the treatment on the inside of teeth. While all endodontists are dentists, less than three percent of dentists are endodontists. Their additional training focuses on the diagnosing and treating of tooth pain and performing root canal treatment and other procedures related to the interior of the tooth.

Endodontists perform a variety of procedures, from the most commonly known root canal therapy, to treatment of cracked teeth and dental trauma.

Signs that you may need a root canal include tooth pain and tooth sensitivity. It is also possible to need a root canal even if you are not experiencing obvious symptoms.

Years ago, diseased or injured teeth were often pulled (extracted). Deep cavities, large fillings, and severe cracks in teeth are common causes of damage to the tooth pulp. This damage can cause pain and/or swelling. Root canal treatment can often save teeth in these conditions by removing the pulp while restoring the tooth. Your general dentist can then restore the tooth to normal form and function. Therefore, endodontic treatment is often a better option than having the tooth pulled.

Many endodontic procedures are performed to relieve tooth pain caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern techniques and anesthetics, most patients report that they are comfortable during the root canal procedure.

Immediately following the root canal procedure, the tooth may feel tender, especially if there was tooth pain or infection before the root canal was performed. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescribed medication, as advised by your endodontist.

The treated tooth may feel slightly different from the other teeth for some time following the treatment. If severe tooth pain or pressure lasts for more than a few days, call your endodontist.

The cost varies depending on how complex the problem is and which tooth is affected. Generally, endodontic treatment and the restoration of a natural tooth is less expensive than having a tooth extracted and replaced with an implant or bridge.

We accept all insurance. In some cases your insurance reimburses you directly. If so, you will pay us at the time of service and your insurance provider will reimburse you.

Patients who do not have insurance will be required to pay in full at the time of service.

Tenderness and soreness in the area of treatment is normal and temporary, usually lasting only a few days. These symptoms respond well to over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve). True anti-inflammatories work best for this type of discomfort. If you are unable to take anti-inflammatory medication, you can get some relief by taking acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Please avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the root canal treatment was performed until you have the tooth restored by your general dentist.

Do not chew anything until the numbness and anesthesia wear off. Very soft foods are recommended for the first few days.

Contact your general dentist soon after your root canal treatment is finished to arrange for the follow-up restoration.

A root canal can be considered a permanent procedure. However, new trauma, deep decay, or loose, cracked, or broken fillings can lead to a new infection in your tooth. In some cases an endodontist may discover additional narrow canals that could not be treated during the original procedure.

Most teeth can be treated. Occasionally a tooth cannot be saved due to its position or a severe fracture. In addition, the amount and location of existing tooth decay may determine if the tooth can be saved.