Root Canal in Columbus, Ohio

What is a Root Canal?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to remove infected tooth pulp in order to prevent the infection from spreading and to salvage the structure of the tooth.

How Does a Root Canal Work?

A root canal works by removing the infected tissue. This involves drilling a small hole in the infected tooth and removing the pulp. The tooth will then be disinfected to remove any bacteria. The hole will be filled and, if necessary, a crown can be placed. However, custom crowns must be ordered.

How do you know if you need a root canal?

There are several reasons that you may need root canal treatment:

• Persisting Chronic Toothaches

  If you have a sudden, severe toothache that will not resolve on its own, you may need root canal treatment

• Abscesses

  An abscess is a pus-filled pimple-like spot on the gums, near the affected tooth. If the pimple bursts, you may have a foul taste in your mouth.

• Swelling Around Teeth

  One of the common symptoms of a tooth infection is swelling around the tooth. This is due to pus collecting in the area. In some cases, the pus doesn't drain and the swelling may spread to the jaw.

• Severe Sensitivity

  If your tooth hurts when you eat or drink something extremely hot or cold, especially if the pain lingers, you may need root canal therapy.

Benefits of Root Canal

There are several benefits of root canal over other options:

• Prevents the spread of the infection
• Eases the symptoms associated with infection
• Reduces risk of damage to the jawbone
• Removes the need for extractions

Root Canal Procedure

There are several steps involved in root canal therapy, including:

• Step 1: Anesthetic

  First, local anesthesia will be administered. This will allow you to be awake and coherent during the procedure, but you won't feel pain.

• Step 2: Removing the pulp

  Once the anesthesia takes effect, a hole is drilled in the affected tooth and the infected pulp is removed.

• Step 3: Antibiotics

  After removing the pulp, the inside of the tooth is cleaned thoroughly. This will reduce the risk of bacteria coming back and causing problems.

• Step 4: Temporary filling

  Finally, the inside of the tooth will be filled, and the hole will be sealed with a composite resin filling. If needed, a temporary crown will be added and we will order a permanent one.

How long does a root canal take?

Depending on the severity of the infection, you may need up to 2 appointments. On average, treatment time ranges from about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the location and complexity of the tooth.

Do root canals hurt?

Before the procedure begins, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area so that you do not feel pain. You may have some discomfort as the anesthesia wears off, but if the pain is intense, you need to seek emergency dental treatment.

How much does a root canal cost?

The cost of root canal treatment depends on the location and complexity of the tooth, as well as the experience and expertise of the dentist. Most dental insurance plans will cover a portion of root canal therapy, due to the restorative benefits. The cost of root canal treatment ranges from around $400 to $4,000.

Root Canal FAQ

Root canal therapy is an extensive treatment. If you have questions, we'll be happy to provide answers. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions at Capitol Square Dental in Columbus, OH.

• How long does a root canal last?

  According to dental health experts, a tooth treated by a root canal lasts an average of 11 years.

• How long does a root canal last without a crown?

  Research shows that, without a crown, a tooth treated by root canal therapy lasts about 6 years.

• Can you eat after a root canal?

  You should avoid eating immediately following root canal treatment. This is because local anesthesia is used and your mouth will be numb. However, after a few hours, you should be able to eat- just be careful and try to avoid eating on the side of the root canal.

• How to avoid a root canal?

  You can reduce your risk of needing root canal treatment by following proper oral health habits including visiting the dentist every 6 months and brushing/flossing as directed by your dentist. You can also reduce your sugar intake, watch what you drink, use mouthwash, choose foods that naturally strengthen your tooth enamel, and avoid tobacco products.

• Can you smoke after a root canal?

  While there are no specific rules for smoking after root canal treatment, dentists recommend that you avoid it because it can impact healing and increase your risk of future root canal therapy.

• How do you know if you need a root canal?

  There are several signs that you may need root canal treatment, including:

  • Unresolved tooth pain
  • Sensitivity to extreme temps
  • Swelling of the gums or jaw
  • Abscess on gums
  • Discoloration of gums or teeth
  • Pain with pressure
  • Tooth that is loose, chipped, or cracked

• Are root canals bad for you?

  No, root canals are not bad for you. However, they do leave the tooth structure weak and at an increased risk of breakage. A dental crown can protect the treated tooth.

request an appointment