Root Canal Therapy is a dental procedure that treats the inner part of the tooth known as the pulp. This part of the tooth contains nerves and blood vessels that can become infected or inflamed due to injury, decay, or other reasons. If left untreated, an infected or inflamed pulp can lead to severe pain, abscesses, and other serious dental problems.
At Molldrem Family Dentistry, we understand that undergoing any dental procedure can be daunting, especially if you don’t know much about it. In this blog, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Root Canal Therapy to help you better understand what it entails.
What is root canal therapy?
Root Canal Therapy is a dental procedure that removes the infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of a tooth. The tooth is then cleaned and disinfected, and a filling or crown is placed to restore its function.
What are the symptoms of needing a root canal?
The most common causes of the need for root canal therapy are deep decay, a cracked or broken tooth, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or trauma to the tooth. Any of these can lead to severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling, tenderness in the gums, darkening of the tooth, and other symptoms.
Is the procedure painful?
Thanks to modern anesthesia and techniques, Root Canal Therapy is relatively painless. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
How long is the procedure?
The length of the procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but most root canals can be completed in one or two appointments that last between 60 and 90 minutes.
How much is Root Canal Therapy?
The cost of Root Canal Therapy varies depending on the location of the tooth, the complexity of the case, and other factors. At Molldrem Family Dentistry, we offer competitive pricing and work with our patients to create payment plans that fit their budgets.
What are the alternatives to Root Canal Therapy?
The only alternative to Root Canal Therapy is extracting the tooth. However, this can lead to other dental problems and should only be considered a last resort.
Will my insurance cover the procedure?
Most dental insurance plans cover at least a portion of the cost of the procedure. Our team at Eden Prairie and Lakeville can help you navigate your insurance benefits and understand your coverage.
At Molldrem Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality dental care. Ready to say goodbye to tooth pain? Schedule your root canal therapy today and get back to smiling! Contact us at (952) 974-5116 or book an appointment online here.