Natural Tooth Preservation & Restoration
In a root canal, the living tissue inside your tooth is taken out and replaced with special dental fillings. This helps the tooth work like normal again. By choosing a root canal, you not only extend the life of your natural tooth but also maintain the health of your jaw bone and surrounding tissues. Plus, keeping your original tooth can save you both pain and money in the future.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal: You might need a root canal if you experience:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks.
- Intense toothache.
- Red or swollen gums around the affected tooth.
- A discoloured tooth.
- A pimple-like sore on your gums.
What to Expect at a Root Canal Appointment
A root canal usually takes one or two appointments, done by either a dentist or an endodontist. Here’s how we go about your root canal:
Pre-Procedure Plan
The first step is to take an x-ray of the tooth and the surrounding bone to identify the root cause of your symptoms. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to manage infection and reduce swelling. Addressing this inflammation before the procedure can make the entire experience more comfortable for you.
Comfortable Preparation
When it’s time for the root canal, we’ll carefully numb the area and then freeze your gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues. Your comfort and ease are our priorities. Once you’re relaxed, we drill a small hole into the tooth to remove the pulp, bacteria, decayed nerve tissue, and any other debris.
Finalizing the Procedure: Sealing the Tooth
How Much Is a Root Canal in London?
The cost of root canal treatment can vary depending on several factors, such as the severity and location of the infection, the health of surrounding teeth and gums, and any potential complications. With insurance, the average out-of-pocket cost is around $200 to $500+, and without insurance, it can range from $600 to $1200+. For an accurate quote tailored to your specific case, we recommend scheduling an oral exam with our experienced dentists who will assess your situation and discuss all available treatment options.
Are There Alternative Treatment Options for Root Canals?
While root canal therapy is often the most effective and recommended treatment for an abscess or infection in a tooth, we understand that some patients may have concerns or preferences. If you suspect an infection but are hesitant about undergoing a root canal, we encourage you to contact us. We prioritize your comfort and well-being and will never proceed with any procedure without your full understanding and consent. Our goal is to provide you with alternative options to resolve the infection and ensure your oral health.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may need a root canal if you have a deep cavity, a cracked tooth, or an infection that has reached the pulp of your tooth.
No, modern root canal procedures are typically pain-free, as local anesthesia is used to numb the area before the treatment.
The duration of a root canal treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but it usually takes one to two appointments, each lasting about 90 minutes.
In most cases, your tooth will not look different after a root canal. However, a dental crown may be placed over the treated tooth for added protection and to restore its natural appearance.
Root canal therapy is a safe and routine dental procedure. However, there is a small risk of reinfection or complications, which can be minimized by following your dentist’s post-treatment instructions.
Yes, in most cases, you will be able to drive yourself home after a root canal as the effects of local anesthesia wear off quickly.
You can resume eating normally after a root canal treatment. However, it is advisable to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods until your tooth is fully restored.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, the results of a root canal can last a lifetime.
Yes, children can undergo root canal treatment if they have infected or damaged teeth. However, the procedure may vary depending on the child’s age and tooth development.
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of root canal treatment. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
If left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to severe pain, abscesses, and even tooth loss. It is important to consult with a dentist to explore all treatment options before making a decision.
