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All About Root Canal Treatment: Why and How It Works
When a cavity reaches the nerve of a tooth, causing unbearable pain, a root canal becomes an essential solution to relieve the patient while saving the tooth. This procedure, also known as endodontic treatment, involves removing the infected nerve and cleaning the tooth to eliminate all traces of decay.
Discover in this article everything you need to know about root canals: what they are, when they are necessary, how they are performed, and why they are often followed by the placement of a crown.
What Exactly Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is an endodontic procedure aimed at removing the dental pulp, which is the living tissue inside the tooth and its roots. This pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues. The goal is to stop the intense pain caused by inflammation and to prevent the spread of a bacterial infection.
All teeth can undergo a root canal (incisors, canines, premolars, molars) on both jaws. Only infected wisdom teeth are most often extracted directly rather than treated.
What Are the Main Indications for a Root Canal?
In most cases, a root canal is necessary when the tooth's nerve has been damaged:
- By a deep cavity that has reached the pulp after destroying the enamel and dentin.
- By trauma (a shock, crack, or fracture) that has exposed the nerve due to loss of tooth structure.
- By necrosis due to a bacterial infection that has spread inside the tooth.
The goal is always to avoid infectious complications (abscess, cellulitis) and to save the tooth. In 85% of cases, a tooth that has had a root canal will last for many years.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
The cost of a root canal depends on the type of tooth involved. Here are the typical costs and potential insurance coverage:
| Procedure | Average Cost | Typical Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Root Canal on an Incisor or Canine | $700 - $1,200 | 50-80% |
| Root Canal on a Premolar | $800 - $1,500 | 50-80% |
| Root Canal on a Molar | $1,200 - $2,000+ | 50-80% |
However, it's important to know that in most cases, a dental crown is necessary after a root canal to strengthen the weakened tooth. The total cost can therefore easily exceed several thousand dollars per tooth, with a significant out-of-pocket expense.
What Are the Warning Signs?
Several signs should prompt you to see a dentist quickly:
- A sharp, throbbing, pulsating pain, worsened by hot and cold.
- A feeling that the tooth is "higher" than the others.
- An abscess (red, painful swelling) on the gum.
- Abnormal tooth mobility.
- A visible fracture or crack on the tooth.
If you experience any of these symptoms, don't wait for the pain to become unbearable. The sooner the tooth is treated, the better its chances of being saved for the long term.
What Happens During a Root Canal Session?
A root canal is usually completed in one or two sessions, each lasting about an hour, under local anesthesia. Here are the main steps:
- Opening the Tooth: The dentist drills into the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
- Removing the Nerve: The pulp is removed using fine endodontic files.
- Cleaning the Canals: The roots are meticulously cleaned and shaped.
- Drying and Filling the Canals: The roots are filled with a rubber-like material (gutta-percha) to seal them.
- Temporary Filling: A temporary filling is placed while the permanent restoration is made.
- Post-operative X-ray: An X-ray is taken to check the quality of the treatment.
Why Is a Crown Recommended After a Root Canal?
A root canal-treated tooth is more fragile than a living tooth because it is no longer vascularized and tends to become dehydrated. It becomes brittle and more susceptible to shocks. That's why it is often necessary to protect it by placing a custom-made crown that will cover and strengthen it.
Furthermore, a crown helps restore chewing function and aesthetics, especially for front teeth. It is recommended not to delay this prosthesis to prevent the tooth from fracturing.
Is It Normal to Have Pain After a Root Canal?
It is common to feel a dull ache and sensitivity for a few days after a root canal. The tissues around the tooth (ligament, alveolar bone) can be irritated by the treatment. Your dentist will prescribe appropriate pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
However, if the pain persists beyond a week, intensifies, or if you have a fever or swelling, it could be a sign of a complication. Do not hesitate to contact your dentist, who will check the tooth and may implement additional treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
How long does a root canal take?
On average, a root canal session lasts between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the number of roots to treat and the anatomy of the tooth. Sometimes, two sessions may be necessary.
Does a root canal-treated tooth change color?
No, that is a misconception. If the treatment is done well, the tooth will keep its natural shade. However, if a crown is placed, the chosen material will be perfectly matched to your teeth for an optimal aesthetic result.
Is getting a root canal painful?
No, the root canal is performed under local anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during the treatment. A sensation of pressure is possible but not painful. It is mainly afterward that temporary pain may occur, easily relieved by medication.
In conclusion, don't be afraid to get a root canal if your dentist recommends it. This procedure can save a tooth compromised by decay or trauma. With a good crown and rigorous hygiene, your treated tooth can remain functional for many years!