What to Expect at a Visit to an Endodontist

Modern root canal therapy from an endodontist is not painful, contrary to popular belief. The process is almost like getting a normal filling. Depending on the patient’s oral health and specific circumstances, the treatment requires only one session. The endodontist will take the necessary steps to keep you comfortable during the process.

A visit to the endodontist

A root canal is an endodontic operation that restores the look and function of a damaged or diseased tooth. When the soft pulp at the tooth’s core layer becomes infected or inflamed due to severe dental decay, recurrent dental treatments, or injuries such as fractures and chips, treatment is required. A tooth with infected pulp can cause significant pain or abscess without treatment.

To determine if the patient needs endodontic treatment, the endodontist will run a few simple tests. If root canal therapy is required, a local anesthetic will be administered to make the patient comfortable throughout the process. The dentist will use a tiny protective covering called a dental dam to isolate the tooth and keep it dry.

The endodontist will access the tooth's root canals, clean out any inflammatory or diseased pulp, and disinfect and shape them carefully. To stop bacteria from re-entering the root canal, the dentist will fill the pulp chamber with a rubber-like material, which is called gutta-percha, and seal it off. A post might be inserted within the tooth to support it if necessary. For transitory symptoms like soreness, the endodontist may prescribe over-the-counter pain relievers. Patients will need to visit the dentist within two weeks after the root canal treatment to get a dental restoration with a crown or filling — this step is critical to the success of the root canal therapy.

Following the tooth restoration process, patients need to maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist for regular exams and cleanings. Periodically, the endodontist may take an X-ray scan of the tooth to check that the damaged regions around it have healed. If the endodontic therapy and restoration are successful, the tooth can survive as long as the rest of the natural teeth.

After the procedure

Aside from basic oral hygiene, a treated tooth requires no extra maintenance once it has been fully repaired with a crown. If the tooth becomes painful months or years later due to trauma or a new infection, further treatment may be necessary. The tooth may be saved if it is retreated.

The cost of an endodontic procedure

The cost of the procedure will vary depending on the problem's severity. Molar treatment is typically more expensive. Root canal therapy is a less expensive alternative to tooth extraction or restoration with dental implants or bridges.