In Office Root Canals

What is a root canal?

Dr. Knudsen or Dr. Pierson performs a majority of root canal therapy cases in our office. A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures.  Well over 14 million root canals are performed every year. This simple treatment can save your natural 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 that helps 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. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.

How is a root canal performed?

If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. The injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. We use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. In addition, we will provide nitrous oxide analgesia if indicated. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, you will be scheduled  for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion. Drs. Knudsen or Pierson will decide on 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 will it cost?

The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected, as well as what type of restoration is needed. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.

Great East Dental Associates

5 out of 5 stars based on 1 Root Canal reviews

Patient Review

Dr. Knudsen was great!

- J O.

5 out of 5 stars on