Root Canal Therapy in Buffalo, NY

Dedicated Buffalo Dentist Providing Affordable Root Canal Therapy Throughout Western New York

Root canals are an example of endodontics, which is the discipline within the field of dentistry that focuses on oral hygiene from within the teeth themselves. Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected, which can only occur when bacteria has penetrated both the sturdy enamel and the softer dentin, the outer and middle layers of the tooth. Decay from a lack of brushing and flossing can allow bacteria to infect the pulp, but cracking and chipping due to injuries can also provide an opportunity. Once the pulp is infected, the only way to save the tooth is through root canal therapy, a procedure that has a high success rate and can preserve your smile.

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Root Canal Therapy in Buffalo, NYThere are several telltale signs that one of your teeth has become infected. Unusual sensitivity, particularly to cold or heat, can suggest that there has been a weakening of the enamel, and pain in the gum or the tooth itself can accompany this discomfort. There may also be a change in color in the tooth or the gum below. An abscess, which is a pus-filled swelling on the gum, is a clear hint that an infection has occurred, and purulent drainage (the seeping of pus into the mouth) can occur. Swelling and tenderness may even occur in the submandibular and submental lymph nodes, which are found on the underside of the chin and the lower jaw. Once an infection has permeated the tooth and spread to the pulp and the gums, a root canal offers the best chance at stopping the bacteria in their tracks.

The idea of a root canal treatment may be intimidating, but your dentist will recommend one only if it is in the best interest of your dental health. Because it is a common operation, all endodontists are qualified to perform root canal therapy, and it can usually be completed in a single visit. If your dentist detects a pulpal infection, he or she will collaborate with an endodontist to ensure that you receive necessary treatment. The endodontist will examine your teeth and take an X-ray to determine the extent of the infection and how best to treat the condition.

If a root canal is required to save the tooth, the procedure can begin almost immediately. Your endodontist will first anesthetize the infected area and insert a dental dam in order to shield your tooth from buildup of saliva. Then, an incision will be made in the top of the tooth, after which the infected pulp and nerve can be removed. The interior of the tooth is then cleaned, antibiotic medication is applied, and the tooth is filled with latex derived from the gutta-percha plant. Cement derived from zinc oxide is placed over the incision into the tooth, which will temporarily protect the tooth from further infection. A few weeks after your root canal treatment, your dentist will install a crown or a similar device at a later date in order to restore the tooth to its original shape, size, and color.

How Much Is an Average Root Canal and Crown?

When discussing price there are always multiple factors that come in to play. Generally, the price of a root canal can range anywhere from $300 to $2,000. The price depends on your dentist, location and insurance. If you’re doing both a root canal and a crown the price still varies. It is also dependent on which teeth you are looking at when wanting to get work done. Your front tooth, back molar and mid-molar are all around the same price of $1,000 without insurance. With insurance these prices range from $300-$600.

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How Long Does It Take to Recover from A Root Canal?

It should only take a few days for you to recover after receiving a root canal. It is normal to be uncomfortable and to have sensitivity and pain. If any of your symptoms last more than a week you should contact your dentist. Even if you are not having any issues after the procedure you should still follow up with your dentist to make sure you are healing properly.

How Painful Is A Root Canal?

When people think of a root canal the first thing that comes to mind is usually discomfort and pain. While it may be normal and pretty common to experience pain during and after a root canal, the pain is not normally excruciating. Most patients feel very little pain if anything due to the numbing and medication used while performing the procedure.

How Many Visits Does It Take for A Root Canal?

If the tooth needing the procedure is not too infected or complicated a root canal can be performed in one appointment. If the tooth is in extremely bad shape it is easier on the patient and the dentist to do the procedure during more than one treatment, this could mean two or even three.

If you have questions or think you may require a root canal, please contact our Buffalo dental office and schedule an appointment today.

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