Root canal & endodontics in Chicopee

When Are Root Canals Needed?

Treatment is the only option to save your tooth once the tissue inside of your tooth has become damaged or infected. If you have any of the following symptoms, you may need root canal therapy:

• Tooth pain that is moderate to severe
• Pain when you bite down or apply pressure to the affected tooth
• Sensitivity to heat or cold
• Swelling near the gums
• Discoloration or darkening of the affected tooth

What Type of Dentist Is Able to Perform Root Canals?

An endodontist specializes in the treatment of root canals, although the procedure can also be performed by a general dentist. Contact our office today, and let us connect you with an experienced root canal dentist.

What Is the Procedure for Root Canals?

The typical length of the procedure is one to two hours and involves the following steps:

1. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the tooth.
2. To isolate the area and keep it clean, a small protective shield is placed.
3. An opening in the tooth is made to access the inside of the tooth.
4. The dentist removes all of the damaged pulp.
5. Small instruments are used to clean and shape the root canals.
6. Fluid might be put into the exposed root canals to disinfect the inside of the tooth and remove debris.
7. The dentist uses a rubber compound called gutta-percha to fill and seal the canals.
8. A crown is placed on top of the tooth to protect it and restore the tooth to full function.

What Is the Cost for Root Canals?

Receiving treatment from a general dentist versus an endodontist, the tooth affected, the number of roots in the tooth, and the severity of damage to the affected tooth are a few examples of factors that determine the total cost of treatment. In general, a dental root canal is much cheaper when compared to other methods, such as an artificial replacement or an extraction. Depending on your dental insurance, your plan may cover some of the total cost. If you’re concerned about your root canal cost, please call our office to receive a cost estimate.

What Are the Different Types of Root Canals?

A root canal crown placed on front teeth and molars is the most common for this procedure, although there are alternative treatments. One such treatment is an apicoectomy, in which the top of a tooth’s root is removed after an initial unsuccessful treatment. Another option is pediatric pulpotomy, which leaves the nerve of the tooth intact after removing the damaged pulp.

Are Root Canals Painful?

Pain during dental root canal treatment is a common misconception you have likely heard. With the help of local anesthetics, you shouldn’t experience any pain during the procedure. If you’re experiencing tooth or mouth pain, there’s no need to suffer any longer.

Contact our office, and let us help you find relief by getting a root canal in Chicopee. Call us today at (413) 241-6913 or book an appointment online.