Q:
Why would I need an endodontic procedure?
A:
Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedure on the tooth or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, a blow to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
Q:
What are the signs and symptoms that I may need a root canal?
A:
Signs of pulp damage include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth and swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. Sometimes, there are no symptoms.
Q:
Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?
A:
With modern techniques and anesthetics most patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure. For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over- the- counter or prescription medications.
Q:
How long is the treatment?
A:
Endodontic treatment can often be performed in one or two visits
Q:
How much will the procedure cost?
A:
The cost varies depending on how severe the problem is and which tooth is affected. Generally, endodontic treatment and restoration of the natural tooth are less expensive than the alternative of having the tooth extracted.