Patient Info - Frequently Asked Questions


Click on a link below for answers to our most frequently asked questions.

IS ROOT CANAL TREATMENT PAINFUL ?

Root canal treatment does not cause pain, it relieves it. Most patients see their dentist or endodontist when they have a severe toothache. The toothache can be caused by damaged tissues in the tooth. Root canal treatment removes this damaged tissue from the tooth, thereby relieving the pain you feel.

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WHAT IS THE SUCCESS RATE ?

Although the pulp is removed, your tooth remains alive, nourished by surrounding tissues.

Most endodontically treated teeth should last as long as any other permanent teeth you have, provided you are in good health and your body has the ability to repair the damaged bone.

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CAN ALL TEETH BE TREATED ENDODONTICALLY ?

Most teeth can be treated. Occasionally, a tooth can't be saved because the root canals are not accessible, the root is severely fractured, the tooth doesn't have adequate bone support, or the tooth cannot be restored. Quite often when traditional endodontic treatment is not effective, endodontic surgery may be able to save the tooth.

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ADVANTAGES OF ENDODONTIC THERAPY

  • The presence and appearance of natural teeth is psychologically important.
  • It is important for patients to retain as many natural teeth as possible in sound condition. This places as little stress as possible on the adjacent teeth.
  • Teeth treated may be used in bridge construction.
  • Treatment may take place at any age.
  • Endodontic treatment results in fewer complications and less post-procedure pain than tooth extraction or implants.
  • Root canal treatment is generally less expensive than tooth extraction coupled with placement of a bridge or implants.

WHO PERFORMS ENDODONTIC TREATMENT ON DENTAL PATIENTS?

All dentists receive some training in root canal treatment. When a dentist decides whether to treat a patient they should consider the following factors: level of knowledge, degree of expertise, the available technology, the challenges or risks present and the chance of success.

Your family dentist may refer you to an endodontist because he or she believes that your case has the best chance to be successfully, efficiently and painlessly treated by an endodontist.

Endodontists are dentists with advanced training in treating the diseased or damaged pulp, of your tooth. Endodontists spend at least two years after dental school, training to become endodontic specialists. In practice, they perform only endodontic procedures and therefore have extensive experience in this area. Many studies show a greater success rate from Doctors who have extensive experience, and perform the procedure daily for many patients.

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COST OF TREATMENT

The cost varies depending on how severe the problem is and which tooth is infected. Molars are more difficult to treat and usually cost more. Most dental insurance policies provide coverage for endodontics treatment. Endodontic treatment and restoration of the natural tooth are less expensive than the alternative of having the tooth extracted. An extracted tooth must be replaced with a bridge or implant to restore chewing function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting. Endodontic Associates participates with most major dental insurance companies. Our staff will gladly work with you on various methods of paying for our services.