At Kirkland Dental Excellence, we understand that root canal treatment can be annoying, and many people may avoid doing it. We aim to ease your concerns by breaking down the details of this common procedure and giving you comprehensive information regarding root canal treatment. So, if you need this treatment and are unsure to do it, this guide is for you.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal is a kind of root dental treatment to save a tooth that’s been seriously damaged or infected. When the soft tissue, or pulp, inside the tooth, gets infected, root canal therapy can prevent the infection from getting worse and avoid the need for extraction. Common signs you might need a root canal include:
- A persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Darkening of the tooth.
- Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums.
Root canals are often recommended for patients with these symptoms, and there’s no specific minimum age for root canal treatment; it’s more about the health and stability of the affected tooth.
Types of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatments fall into different types. The most common types based on your conditions are:
- A standard root canal is the most common type. It focuses on cleaning out infected pulp and sealing the tooth to prevent further issues.
- Retreatment is another type. You need it if your tooth does not heal properly after an initial root canal. Retreatment can solve lingering issues by reopening the tooth, cleaning it again, and re-sealing it.
- When infection persists even after a root canal, you need an apicoectomy. It involves removing the root tip surgically. This treatment is typically used when other methods have not succeeded.
- Endodontic surgery. Our dentists use it when non-surgical root canal treatments aren’t sufficient. Kirkland endodontics involves making a small incision in the gum to access the tooth’s root tip, removing infected tissue, and sealing the root end. We use this treatment for complex cases with persistent issues.
- A pulpotomy removes the infected pulp from the tooth’s crown and leaves the root pulp intact. We use it when the infection hasn’t spread to the roots.
- Pulpectomy removes the entire pulp from both the crown and roots when the infection is more extensive.
Steps of the Root Canal Procedure
A root canal infection treatment may sound complex, but it’s a simple process typically completed in one to two appointments. Let’s see the steps of root canal treatment procedure:
- First, Our dentist will examine your tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the infection.
- Then, we use root canal treatment anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth and ensure a pain-free experience.
- We place a dental dam—a small protective sheet—over the area to keep the tooth clean and free from saliva during the procedure.
- Then, we make a small opening in the dental crown to access the infected or damaged pulp.
- Our dentists remove the infected pulp, and carefully clean and shape the root canal to prepare for filling.
- We fill the cleaned space with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal the tooth and prevent future infection.
- Our root canal specialists place a temporary filling to close the opening until a permanent restoration is completed.
- We place a crown or permanent filling to protect and restore full function, depending on the tooth’s location and your specific needs.
What Happens After Root Canal Treatment
After a root canal, your tooth needs a little time to fully heal. You may feel some soreness and sensitivity in the affected area for 2 or 3 days. You can return to your normal activities within a week. Let’s see root canal treatment aftercare tips together:
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods until the area heals.
- Chew on the opposite side of your mouth to reduce pressure.
- Brush and floss daily to prevent further issues.
- Take any prescribed medications.
- Use an ice pack on your cheek for 10-15 minutes if swelling occurs.
Root Canal Treatment Recovery Time
For most people, root canal recovery takes a week. The initial discomfort usually fades away after 2 or 3 days. Complete healing inside the tooth takes a bit longer, but you should feel comfortable and pain-free within a week. If discomfort lasts longer, talk with our dentist to prevent further problems.
Root Canal Treatment Cost
The root canal price varies based on different factors, like the complexity of the procedure, the tooth’s location, and any additional treatments. For root canal treatment costs without insurance, you have to pay for the entire treatment out of pocket. But if you have insurance, it covers part of the cost—usually between 40% and 80%. You can call us at (425) 382-7116 to learn the price of root canal Kirkland based on your conditions.
Do Natural Treatments for Root Canal Infection Work?
While some may suggest natural remedies as root canal treatment alternatives, you better know that these do not replace professional treatment. Natural treatments, like saltwater rinses, clove oil, or herbal pastes, may help reduce pain or swelling temporarily but cannot remove the infected tissue or stop an abscess from worsening. For effective relief and protection, you need to see our dentist at the first sign of infection.
How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take?
Let’s see how long each type of root canal treatment typically takes:
- Standard Root Canal lasts around 60 to 90 minutes and is completed in one appointment.
- Retreatment may require two or more visits, and each session could last 60 to 90 minutes.
- An apicoectomy needs multiple visits. The main procedure may last about 60 to 90 minutes.
- Pulpotomy needs a single visit and usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes.
- A pulpectomy takes one appointment of around 45 to 60 minutes.
- Endodontic Microsurgery procedure can range from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth’s condition.
How to Avoid Root Canals?
Preventive care is key to avoiding root canals. To prevent root canals:
- Brush and floss daily.
- Attend regular dental check-ups.
- Reduce sugary foods and drinks to maintain healthy teeth.
- Use fluoride mouthwash.
- Address dental issues promptly.
- Stay hydrated with water.
- Avoid tobacco products.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports.
Root Canal Treatment Side Effects
Root canal treatments are generally safe, but they may come with side effects that may include temporary sensitivity around the treated area, especially when chewing or if exposed to hot or cold foods. Mild swelling after root canal treatment around the tooth and gum area is also normal as the area heals. These symptoms typically fade away within a few days. But in rare cases, if discomfort continues, you need to contact our dentist.
Root Canal Treatment Near Me
If you’re seeking a root canal in Washington, our experienced team at Kirkland Dental Excellence is here to help. We’re committed to making your experience as comfortable and effective as possible. So, what are you waiting for? Make an online appointment for a free consultation right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may experience mild, manageable discomfort after a root canal, which usually fades within a few days.
This refers to treating an infected pulp within the tooth to remove the infection and protect the tooth from further damage.
Costs vary depending on factors like the tooth’s location and the procedure’s complexity.
Persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, and gum swelling are common signs.