Root Canal & Endodontics in East Peoria

What Is Root Canal Surgery?

Severely infected, injured or decayed teeth can cause severe pain and loss of function. If your tooth’s inner pulp is damaged beyond repair, a root canal can often save the tooth. During the procedure, the diseased pulp and nerve tissue are removed from your tooth, and the remaining root canals are cleaned and filled. The surgery permanently relieves your pain and other symptoms.

When Is a Root Canal Necessary?

You may need to have a root canal if you’re experiencing one or more of the symptoms listed below:

• Persistent, localized tooth pain
• Sensitivity to temperature or touch
• Tooth pain that wakes you from sleep
• Pain when biting and chewing
• Deep cavities
• Swelling of gums near a painful tooth

What Kind of Dentist Can Perform a Root Canal?

Although many general dentists can perform the procedure, a root canal dentist with special training is called an endodontist; these dentists are usually consulted for complex or challenging cases. If you need an experienced dentist who can perform a root canal, we can help. Contact our office today for more information.

Understanding the Root Canal Procedure

Root canal surgery usually lasts about two hours, but may be completed in two separate visits. Before the procedure begins, you’ll receive a local anesthetic to prevent pain, and the area around the diseased tooth will be prepped and covered. Your dentist will make an opening in the tooth’s crown to access the damaged pulp and remove it. The root canals will be emptied, cleaned, shaped, filled with gutta-percha and sealed. In the final step, which may occur during a second visit, the root canal crown will restore your tooth’s appearance and functionality.

How Much Will My Root Canal Cost?

Root canal cost varies based on the location of the affected tooth, the complexity of the surgery and other factors such as crown material. If you have dental insurance, it may cover part of the cost of your dental root canal. To obtain an accurate estimate, schedule a consultation with one of our skilled endodontic dentists.

Root Canal Treatment Types

Root canal treatment is most often used to restore molars, but any kind of tooth is eligible. Two less common types of root canals include pediatric pulpotomy, which involves removal of pulp tissue without disturbing the tooth’s nerve, and apicoectomy, which is the removal of a root tip after an inadequate prior treatment.

Will Dental Root Canal Treatment Be Painful?

Many people assume that root canals are painful and traumatic, but with today’s anesthetic and conscious sedation options, no one has to be miserable during their treatment. Once your dentist injects a local anesthetic, you won’t be able to feel any pain in the area of the affected tooth. If you suffer from extreme dental anxiety, conscious sedation can alleviate mental distress. Getting a root canal in East Peoria may be the solution for your painful, damaged tooth. Call us today to find out how we can help.