When a tooth has developed extensive decay, it can break down so much that it reaches the vulnerable inner areas where pulp and tissue lay. If bacteria reaches this area, it can easily become infected. However, oral infections do not mean you’re forced to have the tooth extracted. Dr. Renkuntla performs root canal therapy to get patients out of pain and save their natural teeth however possible. During your appointment, he and his team will make sure that you’re feeling comfortable every step of the way. If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, don’t hesitate to call our dental office to get started with root canal therapy in Saginaw!
If you are experiencing significant discomfort in your tooth, it’s possible that an oral infection is developing inside your mouth. However, this is not the only symptom we look for when diagnosing your condition. If your tooth is darkened in color, typically brown, black, or gray, an infection may be present. If you have a high fever, you notice extreme sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures, or a pimple-like bump develops on your gum tissue, it’s far more likely that you need root canal therapy to address your infection.
A severe toothache is a common sign of needing a root canal, but you could notice any of the following as well:
Also, in some (fairly uncommon) cases, an infected nerve “dies” without any pain. However, since there’s still an infection present, a root canal is still necessary to prevent it from spreading and putting your overall health at risk.
In most cases, Dr. Renkuntla can complete a root canal in just one visit. He’ll begin by completely numbing the area. Then he’ll make a tiny hole in the surface of your tooth and remove any damaged or infected tissue. Next, he’ll clean out the canals that run through the root of your tooth and fill them with a bio-compatible material called gutta percha. Lastly, he’ll seal over the tooth with tooth-colored cement.
Also, since a root canal removes a tooth’s blood supply, it will naturally become weaker and more prone to breaking. To restore the tooth’s strength and prevent further problems, Dr. Renkuntla usually recommends getting a dental crown in the weeks or months after a root canal.
Root canals certainly have a bad reputation, but they’re much easier than you might think! We use highly-effective numbing techniques to ensure that you won’t feel any sensation throughout the entire procedure. We also offer sedation options such as nitrous oxide so that even anxious patients can have the procedure done stress-free. Rest assured that for each and every visit, including root canals, your comfort is a top priority.
Generally speaking, the procedure should be done as soon as possible after it’s been treatment planned. If an infection in your tooth isn’t treated with root canal therapy (or an extraction) in time, it can cause several problems. First, the infection can spread to critical areas such as the brain and become very dangerous or even life-threatening.
It can also destroy the jawbone that supports the tooth and keeps it in place, leading to tooth loss (and a subsequent replacement like a dental implant or bridge). Before doing a root canal, Dr. Renkuntla will assess the health of the bone by taking an X-ray to make sure this isn’t a risk.
With root canal treatment, you’ll be able to get rid of any pain in your tooth while also preserving it for much longer. Still, you might wonder about the price of the procedure and how it might fit into your budget. Fortunately, our team will be more than happy to walk you through the details of your treatment and provide a more exact cost of root canals once we’ve evaluated your situation in person. Until then, here are several things you should be aware of.
Remember, we won’t be able to determine the precise cost of root canal treatment without an initial consultation and examination of your affected tooth. However, we’ll still review certain factors that can impact how much you’ll likely pay, such as:
Many patients assume that forgoing root canal treatment and undergoing a tooth extraction will be a much cheaper option. Although the price of the service may be more affordable at the beginning, you’ll still need to consider the long-lasting effects of losing a tooth altogether. Not only will your bite be negatively impacted, but you’ll also have to avoid the complications of dental shifting by replacing the tooth with a dental bridge or implant, which can be costly. Instead, you can avoid these issues and save money by undergoing root canal treatment!
Root canals are generally considered a major dental procedure, so most insurance companies will help cover around 50-80% of the treatment cost after you’ve met your deductible. Still, every patient’s plan is unique, so you’ll need to consult your provider about the details of your plan beforehand. Our knowledgeable team will also be more than happy to help you with the ins and outs of your policy while making the most of your benefits.
Even if you aren’t covered by dental insurance, it doesn’t mean you won’t have options to help your treatment fit your budget. To help you save money in the long run, our team is partnered with a third-party financier known as CareCredit, which can help break up the cost of your dental care into monthly installments. Furthermore, many of their plans come with little-to-no interest, meaning you can save more without breaking the bank!
If your dentist has recommended a root canal in Saginaw, don’t panic! You’ve probably heard a few rumors about the procedure, but don’t let misinformation stop you from saving your tooth. Your dentist will explain everything during your consultation; however, here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions to calm your nerves.
Generally, an infected tooth causes significant pain, but that’s not always a symptom. Your dentist may find your tooth is severely damaged and at risk of infection. A root canal can be recommended before the pulp is infected. As a result, you may not have any discomfort, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need root canal therapy. Instead, it can prevent the issue from worsening to reduce damage to your tooth. It will also stop the infection from spreading to your surrounding teeth and oral structures. You’ll preserve your natural smile while reducing your future dental expenses.
You don’t have to worry about a long recovery or missing several days of work after a root canal. Everyone heals at a different rate, but most people are fully recovered in 3-5 days. You may experience some tenderness, which can be managed using an OTC pain reliever. Your dentist in Saginaw will review any aftercare instructions to ensure a speedy recovery, like maintaining your oral hygiene and eating softer foods. If your discomfort worsens or doesn’t improve after 5 days, contact our office for further instructions.
Root canal therapy is designed to provide a long-term solution. Your results can last for several years to a lifetime with the right maintenance. You can ensure your tooth stays healthy with a solid home oral hygiene routine. Besides brushing, flossing, and using a daily mouthwash, limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks to promote a cavity-free smile. Commit to visiting your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They will check your tooth at each appointment to ensure there aren’t any new concerns. If you require a dental crown, your dentist will have additional instructions to safeguard your tooth, like avoiding hard or sticky foods. It is best to break any bad habits, like smoking, using your teeth in place of scissors, or chewing on inedible objects. Although a root canal can last forever, a crown will need to be replaced every 5 to 15 years.
It is very unlikely your pain will resolve on its own without any treatment because the infection will remain deep within your tooth. If your discomfort does subside, that’s not a good sign. It can indicate your tooth has died and a root canal can no longer save it. As a result, your only option may be to have it removed. Instead of a root canal, you’ll need to replace the tooth, which can get very costly over the years.