Q: "What exactly is a root canal? Is that where they take the whole root out?"
A: A root canal (endodontic therapy) is a process to keep a tooth that would normally have to be removed or extracted. The root itself in not removed. The pulp of the tooth is actually removed, and that space is filled with a biocompatible filling material. The pulp is the "living" part of the tooth that contains the blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. An analogy of this process would be like removing the lead out of the inside of a pencil, and replacing that space with a plastic filling material.
Q: "My neighbor had one, and said it hurt, is that true?"
A: When properly performed and prepared for treatment, a root canal is painless. Horror stories from friends and neighbors result from poor treatment planning, improper or delayed treatment, and/or non-compliance of prescribed medications. We always suggest a separate examination prior to treatment, if possible, so that an assessment of the the past medical and dental history, existing prescriptions, and an analysis of the problem can be properly performed. With this knowledge, the direction of the case can be planned: Correct and/or new prescriptions, adequate time for infection and inflammation control, proper anesthesia/sedation complete treatment, and recommended follow-up exams can make all the difference in the world. Hasty, improper, or poor timing of treatment results in pain and often a lower long term prognosis.
Q: "Why are they so expensive?"
A: They're not easy to do, and requires extensive training, staff support, supplies, anesthesia, and experience to be properly performed. It seems so ironic that something that takes about an hour or so could cost so much. The preparation, instruments, supplies, labor, business operation costs, insurance, "all feed the fire of expense". We attempt to keep the procedure as quick and efficient as possible for patient comfort. Our fees are based on national and regional fee comparison for accuracy and fairness. Alternative treatments of tooth removal with replacement with bridgework, removable dentures, or implants is can often be more expensive and time consuming.
Q: "Why do I have to return to my general dentist for a filling after the root canal? Didn't you finish the job? How soon do I have to go back?"
A: All we do is the root canal. As a specialty practice, our focus is the root canal procedure alone. By maintaining this focus, we are able to accommodate a wide variety of complex endodontic procedures of varying difficulty. Our efforts are basically on the inside of the tooth. The outside of the tooth that you see (above the gum) is best restored by your family or general dentist due to their expertise. Your tooth leaves our office with a temporary filling which is designed to function for approximately 6-8 weeks until your general dentist can place the permanent filling, and/ or crown so that your tooth will remain in function for years. General dentists and their staff are best trained and experienced for these restorative procedures. That is what they do, and they do it well. By combining our skills and experiences you receive the benefit!!