Q and A
Why have I been referred to an endodontist?
Endodontists are dentists with at least two additional years of education that include the diagnosis of unusual dental pain as well as the treatment of difficult root canals. Additionally an endodontist has been trained in surgical treatment ,when conventional treatment is not an option.
 
What is a root canal, anyway?

Root canal therapy, or endodontics is an advaced dental procedure done to the inside(endo) of the tooth (dontic). An opening is made on the chewing surface of a tooth so that the inflamed or infected pulp tissue can be removed. The root canal is cleaned, disinfected and shaped, then tightly sealed so that no bacteria can enter and re-infect the tooth.

 
Why do I need endodontic treatment?

Sometimes the pulp inside your tooth (which contains the nerve) becomes inflamed or infected. This can be caused by deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma such as a blow to the tooth.

 
How do I know if I may need a root canal?
An infected or injured tooth may cause your tooth to be sensitive to hot or cold foods or drinks, or it may be painful when you bite down or touch the tooth. You may awaken at night with severe pain. You may also have short term or long bouts of pain and throbbing. Your gums may swell or become sensitive to touch near the affected tooth. You may also not experience any of these symptoms, but, rather, your dentist diagnosed this from a routine exam and x-ray.
 
Can all teeth be treated by root canal therapy?
Advances in the field of Endodontics have made it possible to save teeth that would have been non-salvageable just a few years ago. However, sometimes a tooth cannot be saved because the root is severely fractured, there is severe bone loss, or the tooth is not restorable.
 
Is the procedure painful?

With modern anesthetics, most patients are very comfortable during the procedure. After the procedure, the tooth may feel sore or sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over the counter or prescription medication. However, if you experience swelling or severe pain after the procedure, you should contact our office as soon as possible.

 
My dentist referred me for a retreatment, what's that about?

Sometimes a tooth that has already had root canal therapy may become re-infected. This can occur due to new trauma, deep decay, or a loose cracked or broken filling. In some cases your endodontist or dentist may discover very narrow or curved canals that could not be treared during the initial procedure. Often, retreating the root canal will eliminate these problems.

 
What about endodontic surgery?

The most common endodontic surgical procedure is an apicoectomy or root-end resection. It is used to relieve inflammation or infection in the bony area around the end of your tooth that continues after endodontic treatment. The endodontist opens the the gum tissue and removes the infected or inflamed tissue and may remove the very end of the root. A small filling may be placed to seal the root canal. Endodontists use local anesthetics, like those used when you have a cavity filled. Most patients return to their normal activities the next day.

 
Is there additional treatment or special care after root canal?
You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored by your general dentist because your tooth could fracture. Otherwise, just practice good oral hygiene - brushing, flossing and regular checkups and cleanings. Endodontically treated teeth can last for many years, even a lifetime.
 
Will my insurance cover the cost of root canal ?

Some insurance companies will cover all or a part of the treatment fee. We will assist you in any way by submitting your forms for you. As with all dental procedures, there is never a guarantee of payment until the insurance company receives and processes you claim. As always feel free to ask our financial coordinator if you have any specific questions about your insurance.

 
Do you participate in any insurance plans?

Yes. In fact currently we participate with the following plans: