What To Do If You Need A Root Canal?
If you’ve experienced any of the following:
- serious pain when eating
- mouth swelling
- extreme sensitivity
- tooth darkening
- pimple-like bumps on the gums
Then you should contact your dentist and arrange a check-up as soon as possible. They may then advise you to have a root canal.
If you have been referred for a root canal treatment, then we suggest you take a breath and evaluate your options.
A root canal, which is also known as an endodontic treatment, is administered to the inside of the tooth when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. Simply put, this procedure is necessary to save a tooth which would otherwise need to be removed. Endodontic treatment has an incredibly high success rate. Many root canal-treated teeth last a lifetime, so with the right endodontist you really have nothing to worry about. According to statistics, more than 95% of the procedures are successful allowing the tooth to remain in function. Your dentist will take a closer look at your infected teeth, provide x-ray examination of your mouth and use the latest dental microscope technology to bring your beautiful smile back!
Are there any alternatives to root canal treatment?
Although less preferred, tooth extraction is another option – a procedure where your dentist removes the infected tooth from its socket. However, this can cause some long-term issues, such as bite problems, dietary considerations (avoiding crunchy, spicy or acidic food), sensitivity of the roots, and worsening of periodontal disease. At first glance, extraction seems the cheaper alternative but note that the bridge or implant needed to replace the tooth will nearly always exceed the cost of the root canal procedure itself. Losing teeth as an adult can have serious effects on confidence, so we try to keep this to a minimum.
According to statistics made by the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), more than 15 million root canals are performed each year and 89% of the patients are satisfied after the treatment. 76% of participants said they prefer a root canal procedure to tooth extraction as it is a lot safer, far more convenient and far less traumatic!
How to find the right endodontist?
Endodontists undertake a special training in the use of advanced technologies, such as digital imaging, operating microscopes and ultrasonic imaging. They have unparalleled knowledge when it comes to the inside of the tooth. They have also completed a great number of programs and practitioner courses. So having a qualified and experienced endodontist really is a must!
Patients are more often than not referred to a qualified endodontist by their personal dentist. That being said, we can’t stress how important it is to research a local reputable endodontist for yourself. There are several key criteria you should be aware of:
- Endodontist’s qualifications
- Experience and accreditations
- Types of surgical technology
- Advanced equipment used
- Medication and pain-relief options
- Cost of treatment and payment plans
How much does the endodontic treatment cost?
The cost varies depending on how complicated the procedure will be. While dental insurance may cover part or all of the cost for the root canal treatment, some policies limit coverage to a single procedure on a tooth. After your consultation, your dentist will give you a written estimate of the costs involved and explain everything you need to know before you start your root canal treatment. Note that if you have your dental procedure privately, you will need to pay all of your treatment costs. Typically, a root canal treatment cost varies between £400 and £600, depending on the number of roots the tooth has and the complexity of the treatment. According to recent statistics, 87% of general dentists say work performed by endodontists is worth the cost.