A root canal, endodontic therapy, remedies a tooth that has infected pulp, and the intention is to preserve the patient's natural tooth. Likewise, a total extraction provides the same remedy for the infected pulp, however the tooth is not preserved and a total replacement is
required following the extraction. If the infected tooth is extracted, the most common replacement options are a dental bridge or a dental implant.
The pulp of a tooth contains the blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue inside a tooth, damage to the pulp can result in the death of a tooth.
A root canal is the most effective means of saving a tooth when the pulp is infected, and is often the preferred treatment given it is less costly overall and less involved than total extraction and replacement.
The complexity, cost and precise method of treatment associated with a root canal is directly related to the location and complexity of the problem within the mouth.
American Dental Association uniform procedure codes and treatment descriptions categorize root canals as one of three types:
- Root Canal, Front Tooth
- Root Canal, Mid tooth
- Root Canal Rear Tooth
Of course this only applies when a root canal is done instead of a total extraction.
Common Symptoms
Pain (moderate to extreme), sensitivity to hot and cold.
Course of Treatment
The fist step in the care of this problem is to have an examination, which may be immediately followed by treatment. To schedule an appointment please call our office.
Dr. Caputo and his staff are generally able to schedule appointments, whether an initial visit or follow up appointment, within a very short timeframe.
Any patient, new or existing, may begin a course of treatment by availing themselves of a Comprehensive Examination by and Consultation with Dr. Caputo at a cost of $96. See offer details.
A root canal can be performed using sedation dentistry, in combination with local anesthesia.
Dr. Caputo offers patient's the choice of four forms of sedation during a root canal procedure:
- Inhalation Sedation (nitrous oxide)
- Oral Sedation (a pill)
- Oral Sedation in combination with Inhalation Sedation
- I.V. Sedation
Once the infected area is cleaned, shaped and disinfected, the canals within the tooth are sealed to prevent future infections. The desired result is to save the tooth despite the death of the nerve. Most root canals can be performed in one visit; tooth reconstruction is a separate procedure.
Tooth Reconstruction Following a Root Canal
Following treatment of the diseased area some form of tooth restoration is required, ranging from a simple filling to a post and crown. If a tooth is not restored appropriately after root canal therapy, it is prone to fracture, decay and/or re-infection.
The type of tooth restoration which takes place is dependent on the conditions present leading up to the root canal procedure. In most instances a temporary filling is placed in the tooth following the root canal and remains in place until the tooth reconstruction takes place in a subsequent visit.
Following a root canal one of the following forms of tooth reconstruction is used:
Other factors which determine the precise method of reconstruction may largely rest with the patient, including the use of a crown (cap) to protect the reconstructed tooth, and/or cosmetic treatments, to insure the uniform color of your teeth following the procedure.
Aftercare
Most patients' experience little pain following a root canal, however pain relievers are generally provided to address any discomfort. Systemic antibiotics may be indicated.
Personal Care Plan
You may wish to discuss with Dr. Caputo a personal care plan, taking into account your priorities regarding other oral health needs. Discussing a personal care plan with Dr. Caputo, while not required, is an opportunity discuss your overall oral health, personal concerns and desires in this regard, and to address your needs and wants.
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