Are you in excruciating tooth pain? Has your tooth pain lasted for more than two days?
Visit Chapel Hill Cosmetic and Family Dentistry for a dental exam to determine the cause of your tooth pain. If you have a tooth infection that has reached your tooth root, you may need a root canal procedure. Dr. Furgurson or Dr. White may perform your root canal procedure in our Chapel Hill dentist office, or refer you to a local endodontist for treatment.
A root canal is often thought of as being a very painful procedure. A root canal is typically no more painful than a tooth filling. In fact, a this treatment actually relieves your pain almost immediately! The pain most people fear is from the infection itself and the inflammation and pressure it causes.
A root canal procedure is the best way to preserve a natural tooth and prevent further damage to your smile. We strive to make you as comfortable as possible during your treatment.
Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction
The best treatment choice will depend on your specific situation. However, in most cases it is best for the patient to preserve the natural tooth with a root canal or another treatment. Tooth extraction due to damage or decay can have an effect on your overall dental health. The lessen the effects, you must replace the tooth as soon as possible.
An extracted tooth should always be replaced as soon as possible to prevent neighboring teeth from shifting and to reduce the risk of bone loss, tooth decay, and gum disease.
The dentist can typically complete the root canal procedure during a single visit to our office. With the use of a local anesthetic, most patients experience minimal to no discomfort during their treatment. In many cases, the root canal relieves the pain of an infected or badly damaged tooth. After the procedure, we will then begin the steps to have a dental crown placed on the tooth for added protection and support.
Root Canal FAQs
What is a root canal?
The term root canal refers to the inside of a tooth where the pulp and nerves are. You will need a root canal treatment when you have a significantly damaged tooth or have decay that extends into the pulp chamber. Tooth pain is usually the first sign patients experience, though a dentist can spot infection during routine exam.
How much does a root canal cost?
Factors that go into determining the price of the root canal procedure include the extent of damage to the tooth and type of restoration needed (ex. dental filing vs. dental crown). Some dental insurance providers will pay for all or part of the cost of root canal therapy. Dr. Furgurson’s office staff will assist you with all billing and documentation for your insurance company to help maximize your benefits.
What should I do if I fear a root canal procedure?
For our patients who suffer from dental anxiety, we offer sedation dentistry. This will allow you to receive the care you need and restore your oral health.
How long do root canals take to settle?
The majority of patients recover from their root canal after a few days. This is not common, but occasionally patients develop difficulties post procedure that require an extended recovery period that may last up to two weeks.
How much pain is normal after a root canal?
Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with your discomfort after a root canal procedure.
Can I brush my teeth after root canal?
After a root canal dentists encourage their patients to brush their teeth, but to be extra careful around the site of the procedure. You can clean your teeth normally after the numbing medication used during your procedure has worn off.