What are the steps involved in root canal therapy?

 Root canal therapy is usually performed by a dentist or an endodontist, a specialist who deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of the dental pulp and surrounding tissues. The procedure can be done in one or more visits, depending on the complexity and severity of the case.

The steps involved in root canal therapy are:

• Diagnosis: Your dentist or endodontist will examine your tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage and infection. They will also ask you about your medical history and any medications you are taking, as they may affect the treatment.
• Anesthesia: Your dentist or endodontist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic, so you will not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. They may also give you sedation, such as nitrous oxide or oral medication, to help you relax and reduce anxiety.
• Isolation: Your dentist or endodontist will place a rubber dam around the tooth to isolate it from the rest of the mouth and prevent saliva and bacteria from contaminating the root canal. They will also use a dental drill to make a small opening on the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
• Cleaning: Your dentist or endodontist will use special instruments, such as files and irrigants, to remove the infected or inflamed pulp from the root canal. They will also clean and shape the root canal to prepare it for filling and sealing. They may also apply medication to the root canal to kill any remaining bacteria and prevent further infection.
• Filling: Your dentist or endodontist will fill the root canal with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha, which is biocompatible and seals the space. They will also use an adhesive cement to bond the gutta-percha to the tooth. They will then restore the opening on the top of the tooth with a temporary filling or a crown, depending on the condition and strength of the tooth.
• Finishing: Your dentist or endodontist will remove the rubber dam and check your bite and occlusion. They will also give you instructions on how to care for your tooth and mouth after the procedure, such as avoiding chewing or biting on the treated tooth until it is fully restored. They will also schedule a follow-up visit to monitor the healing of the tooth and to place a permanent filling or a crown on the tooth, if needed.

How long does root canal therapy take and how much does it cost?

The duration and cost of root canal therapy depend on several factors, such as:

• The number and location of the teeth that need treatment
• The complexity and severity of the case
• The experience and expertise of the dentist or endodontist
• The type and quality of the materials and equipment used
• The type and extent of the restoration needed
• The insurance coverage and payment options available

Generally, root canal therapy can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the factors mentioned above. The average time for a single-rooted tooth is about an hour, while a multi-rooted tooth may take longer.

The cost of root canal therapy can vary widely, depending on the factors mentioned above. The average cost for a single-rooted tooth is about $500, while a multi-rooted tooth may cost more. The cost of the restoration, such as a filling or a crown, is usually separate and additional to the cost of the root canal therapy.

The good news is that most dental insurance plans cover some or all of the cost of root canal therapy, as it is considered a medically necessary procedure. You should check with your insurance provider and your dentist or endodontist to find out the exact coverage and payment options for your case.