What Is a Root Canal?
Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures performed at Cascade Endodontics in Orem, Utah. Root canal therapy can save your teeth and prevent the need for dental implants or bridges.
At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels and nerves that help to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures on the tooth.
Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling around the tooth, or sensitivity to temperature and chewing in the tooth. If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist may recommend a root canal to eliminate the diseased pulp.
How Is a Root Canal Performed?
Success for root canal therapy occurs in about 90 percent of cases. Here at Cascade Endodontics, we will generally follow these same steps:
- We will anesthetize your tooth to eliminate discomfort.
- The injured pulp is removed.
- Then the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed.
This treatment may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. If your tooth is not amenable to root canal therapy or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation with Dr. Jenson or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment.
In addition, we will provide dental sedation options for pain and anxiety management. Patients treated by Dr. Jenson are amazed at how painless the root canal procedure can be! You will normally be able to drive home after your treatment and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.
What Happens After Root Canal Treatment?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your general dentist. You should contact their office for a final restoration within one month of completion at our office. Your general dentist will decide what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth.
It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.
How Much Do Root Canals Cost?
The cost associated with root canal therapy can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.
Are Root Canals Safe?
Yes. Root canals are not only safe, but they're also a very common procedure. Here are some resources from the American Association of Endodontists:
More Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Us for More Information on Root Canals
Dr. Jenson, your Utah County endodontist, is happy to answer your questions and address your concerns with root canals! He will help you have the information you need to make the best decisions for your situation. Contact our Orem office at the mouth of Provo Canyon today by calling or filling out the form on this page.