A root canal is a pain-relieving procedure that can save natural teeth from extraction. The cost of this procedure varies depending on the damage level and the complexity of the tooth anatomy. In Sun City Center, FL, root canals cost about $700 to $900 per tooth.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a comfortable, routine dental procedure for treating dying or infected teeth. During a root canal, the dentist creates a small opening in the tooth's crown and uses tiny tools to remove the inflamed or infected pulp. The dentist then removes all the material from the crown and interior root canals.
After removing the source of infection, the dentist cleans and disinfects the tooth's interior. They fill the tooth with biocompatible material and add a temporary crown or filling to protect it. Your dentist will then create and apply a permanent filling or crown to complete your restoration.
Benefits of a Root Canal
One of the greatest benefits of a root canal is that it relieves pain. Your tooth will feel significantly better after your root canal and will continue to improve as the infection passes, and the area heals.
Root canals treat infections that could spread to other teeth or become systemic if left alone. They preserve natural teeth and root systems that otherwise may need extraction.
Since this procedure keeps the natural root system intact, a root canal can prevent the need for a restoration like a bridge or an implant.
What Are the Signs That I May Need a Root Canal?
If you have any of the following symptoms, consult your dentist:
- Severe toothache, especially if it comes and goes, then comes back worse than before
- Tooth pain that gets worse when you bite down or chew
- Fever or chills
- Discolored (gray or black) tooth
- Swelling gums or jaw
Fever, chills, and swelling could indicate a dental abscess or an infection that has begun to spread. Call your dentist as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
After a root canal, does my treated tooth need a crown?
Root canal-treated teeth eventually become brittle. Researchers have found that dental crowns preserve these teeth for a longer period.
Does a root canal hurt?
Root canals have a reputation thanks to decades-old, misleading information. Today, a root canal feels more like getting a large filling. Technique and local anesthesia advances make this possible. We do offer sedation dentistry if you feel uneasy.
Call Jacobs and Thatcher Dentistry
Root canals are beneficial and can help save your natural teeth. If you have any of the above symptoms, call us immediately at 813-634-1932. We can help you feel better and protect your oral and overall health.