Saving Your Natural Tooth
A root canal procedure removes the pulp—the living tissue inside the tooth—and fills the space with special medicated dental materials to restore the tooth’s full function. This treatment not only extends the life of your natural tooth but also helps protect the surrounding jawbone and supporting tissues. Whenever possible, preserving your natural tooth can save you from more pain, complications, and expenses in the future.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold.
- Severe toothache pain.
- Red or swollen gums near the affected tooth.
- Tooth discoloration.
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
Signs you may need a root canal:
Early intervention with root canal therapy can relieve discomfort and protect your oral health while maintaining your natural smile.
The Root Canal Treatment Plan
A root canal treatment typically requires one or two visits to the dentist or endodontist. Here’s how the process works to relieve pain and restore your tooth:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
The first step involves taking an X-ray of the affected tooth and surrounding bone to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms. If an infection is present, your specialist may prescribe antibiotics to reduce inflammation and control the infection. This step helps alleviate the pressure caused by swelling, which is often the source of pain associated with an abscess and during the root canal itself. Reducing inflammation beforehand ensures a smoother and more comfortable procedure.
Prepping the Tooth
Once you’re ready for the procedure, we’ll carefully numb the area to ensure your comfort. We prioritize your peace of mind and take the time needed to make you feel at ease. After numbing, we drill a small access hole in the tooth to remove the pulp, bacteria, decayed nerve tissue, and other debris causing the infection.
Sealing the Tooth
If the abscess is severe, we may place medication inside the tooth to eliminate any remaining infection. For multi-visit procedures, a temporary filling is applied, offering immediate relief. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and infection-free, it will be permanently sealed to restore its function and integrity. This step-by-step approach ensures effective treatment while prioritizing your comfort and long-term oral health.
Cost of a Root Canal in Laurens
The cost of a root canal can vary significantly, but preserving your natural tooth with this procedure is more cost-effective in the long run.
With typical insurance coverage, the out-of-pocket cost for root canal therapy averages between $200 and $500+. Without insurance, the total cost ranges from $600 to $1200+, depending on your specific case. After an oral exam, we can provide an accurate estimate for your insurance provider, helping you understand your actual expenses.
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Why do costs vary so much? Several factors influence the cost of root canal therapy, including:
- The severity of the infection.
- The location of the affected tooth (front teeth are generally less complex than molars).
- The condition of surrounding teeth and gums.
- Any complications that require additional time or specialized care.
Because every case is unique, no dental practice can offer an exact quote over the phone. A consultation with a dentist ensures you receive an accurate assessment and clear options for your treatment plan.
Is there an alternative to root canals?
An infected or abscessed tooth is a serious health concern that requires prompt attention. While many associate root canals with discomfort, the reality is they effectively eliminate the infection, relieve pain, and prevent the condition from spreading. Left untreated, a tooth infection can escalate into a life-threatening emergency requiring more invasive care.
If you’re hesitant about a root canal, we encourage you to reach out. We prioritize your comfort and will walk you through all available options to resolve the infection. No procedure will be performed without your full understanding and consent. Your health and peace of mind are always our top priorities.
Let us help you find the best solution for your dental care needs.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Damage that necessitates a root canal can result from deep decay, trauma, a dead nerve, a loose filling or crown, or a crack or chip in the tooth.
With modern techniques, advanced technology, and a compassionate approach, root canal treatments are typically performed with minimal to no pain. Our highly trained dentists and hygienists ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
By the time a root canal is needed, the tooth’s pulp and nerve are already decaying. Antibiotics alone cannot fully heal this infected tissue, as it will continue to deteriorate and risk reinfection. Removing the pulp is the only safe and effective solution.
A root canal treatment usually requires one or two visits. Simple cases take approximately 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases can require up to 90 minutes of treatment.
Coverage depends on your insurance plan. After a consultation, we can provide an estimate for submission to your provider. We encourage you to prioritize a root canal if recommended and are happy to address any hesitations or concerns you may have.
In most cases, a dental crown is needed to protect back teeth like molars and premolars after a root canal. Front teeth, such as canines and incisors, may not require a crown depending on the specific circumstances.
Let us guide you through your treatment options and provide a comfortable, effective solution to restore your oral health.
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