Root Canal Therapy – Indianapolis, IN
Getting to the Root of the Problem
Pain that stems from the inside of a tooth can be more than just an annoyance. Instead, it can be a serious problem that poses a threat to your oral and overall health. Because the innermost layer of a tooth is highly sensitive, the pulp as it is known must be properly protected. When faced with an infection or damage to this area, there is only one solution that is capable of addressing the issue – root canal therapy in Indianapolis. Call our office today so that we can get to the root of the problem.
Why Choose Indy Dental Group for Root Canal Therapy?
- Nitrous Oxide Available
- Dental Insurance Welcome
- Advanced Dental Technology Used In-House
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Knowing whether you need a root canal or not is only determined once you meet with your dentist. It is during this visit that our team at Indy Dental Group will survey the severity of the problem and decide if this extensive procedure is appropriate for your needs.
If you have any of the following issues, however, there is a good chance you will be recommended for root canal therapy:
- Tooth pain throughout your face, bone, jaw, or nearby teeth
- Increasing tooth sensitivity
- Loose tooth
- Damaged tooth (chipped or cracked)
- Difficulty eating or biting down
- Inflamed gums
- Discolored tooth as a result of injury to the pulp
The Root Canal Process
The process of undergoing a root canal involves several steps. Our team of experts will begin by administering local anesthesia so that you feel no pain or pressure throughout the procedure. If necessary, you can also request sedation, which we can provide in the form of nitrous oxide.
Our team will then place a dental dam so that the tooth in question is isolated. After creating an opening in the crown of the tooth, we will begin to clear away all decayed or damaged parts of the tooth, including the pulp. We will need to flush out nearby canals as well.
Once the tooth is cleaned, we will rinse it out to ensure no debris is left behind. We will then fill it with a substance known as gutta-percha before sealing the tooth and preparing it for a customized dental crown that will sit on top to offer maximum protection to the structure while it heals and strengthens over time.
The Benefits of Getting a Root Canal
Although there is the misconception that root canals are painful procedures that cause more discomfort, they are actually one of the most beneficial because of how they work to alleviate pain. Removing the infected or damaged pulp, the source of the pain, allows patients to achieve relief.
Other unique benefits of root canal therapy include:
- The ability to keep your natural tooth in place instead of extracting it and turning to replacement options (i.e., dental bridge, denture, or dental implant)
- A more cost-effective option because you only need a dental crown instead of paying to have the tooth removed and replaced
- A high success rate that allows you to enjoy a healthier, pain-free smile
Understanding the Cost of Root Canals
For many patients, two of the most common concerns about root canal treatment are whether the procedure will hurt and how much it costs. Fortunately, our team is here to provide you with the most comfortable and pain-free dental care you deserve while helping you minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. During your initial consultation, we’ll review your treatment plan as well as the cost of root canals so that you know what to expect.
Factors That Can Affect Root Canal Cost
In many cases, the factors that can influence the price of root canal treatment usually involve things like:
- The number of teeth that need to be treated
- The complexity of the dental situation
- The location of the tooth in the mouth
- The kind of restoration necessary to strengthen and improve your tooth and smile
For this reason, we’ll thoroughly evaluate your tooth in question, take X-rays, and review our findings with you so that you know how we plan to perform your procedure. We’ll also walk you through any factors that you might have and how this will affect the overall cost of your care.
Is it Cheaper to Remove My Tooth?
Some people might assume that simply extracting a compromised or infected tooth will be much easier and more convenient instead of undergoing a root canal. However, there won’t be anything simple about this. Once you’ve lost a tooth, you’ll likely need to replace it with a dental bridge, partial denture, or dental implant, which will increase the total cost of your treatment. In addition, a lack of stimulation from tooth roots can cause your jawbone to shrink over time, raising the risk of further tooth loss. By undergoing a root canal, you can preserve your natural tooth as well as the rest of your smile.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Root Canal Treatment?
Since this is considered an essential tooth-saving procedure, you might expect dental insurance to help cover at least a portion of the total cost of your root canal. In many instances, you could expect around 50% or more to be paid for. Of course, you’ll need to keep certain limitations in mind, such as a waiting period or an annual deductible, before your benefits kick in. Make sure to consult your provider about your policy so you understand the ins and outs. You can also speak with our team so we can help you make the most of your plan.
Other Options for Making Root Canal Treatment Affordable
Those who aren’t currently insured aren’t completely out of luck when it comes to getting a root canal while staying within their budget. Our team is proud to be partnered with third-party financier, CareCredit. This company can offer patients plans that cut down the overall cost of dental treatments into monthly installments, many of which come with little to zero interest! Feel free to call our team to learn more about your options for saving money.
Root Canal FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?
Recovery time following a root canal can vary, but many patients can resume work or school the day after the procedure. For physically demanding jobs, consider taking at least two or three days off to allow for proper healing. Avoid vigorous exercise during this time to promote a faster recovery.
Expect some soreness in your mouth for a few days, and follow your dentist's instructions regarding prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of the treated tooth. Maintain your regular oral hygiene routine, but be gentle around the treated area. If you experience worsening pain or signs of infection, such as fever or swelling, contact us immediately.
Can I Eat Before a Root Canal?
If sedation is planned for your procedure, fasting for a few hours before your appointment is advised to minimize the risk of nausea. However, if no sedation is involved, we recommend having a filling, nutritious meal before treatment. Eating before a root canal is essential as it may be challenging to eat afterward. Nevertheless, remember to brush your teeth before heading to the dentist's office for the best oral hygiene preparation.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long for a Root Canal?
Unlike other parts of the body, teeth lack the ability to self-heal. Neglecting a tooth infection can lead to its worsening without a root canal. That’s why it’s crucial to schedule a root canal promptly after your dentist's recommendation.
Sometimes, the pain may temporarily subside, misleading patients into thinking they no longer require a root canal. Unfortunately, this often indicates nerve damage caused by the infection, making them insensitive to pain. Delaying treatment could result in the infection spreading to the jaw, gums, other teeth, or even causing systemic illness throughout the body. Severe damage may lead to tooth extraction.
Can Root Canals Be Prevented?
The best way to prevent a root canal is by prioritizing your oral health. Daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use, along with regular dental checkups and cleanings can help minimize the risk of bacteria reaching your tooth's pulp. A healthy diet with limited sugar and nutritious foods, coupled with ample water intake, helps protect your teeth. Wear a mouthguard during sports and a nightguard for bruxism while sleeping. By addressing chipped or cracked teeth promptly, you can reduce the likelihood of requiring another root canal.
Can I take antibiotics instead of getting a root canal?
No, antibiotics are not a suitable alternative to root canal treatment. The reason for this is simple: the medication cannot reach the pulp of the tooth, which is where the infection lies. In order to truly restore the look, health, and strength of your tooth, your dentist in Indianapolis will need to provide the necessary restorative care.
Do I still need a root canal if my toothache went away?
The short answer is “yes.” After all, the change in your symptoms isn’t because your tooth was able to heal on its own. It’s usually the opposite: the nerve has died. Although this will cause the discomfort you were experiencing to subside, the infection is still present and progressing. So, it’s extremely important that you don’t cancel your upcoming root canal in Indianapolis (or postpone scheduling one any longer).
Are root canals painful?
Of course, this list of frequently asked questions wouldn’t be complete without discussing a common concern: that eliminating the infection will hurt. Fortunately, the procedure is virtually painless. We can say this with confidence because we will numb your mouth thoroughly beforehand. Plus, we will provide you with helpful aftercare instructions, including rinsing with warm saltwater periodically and taking OTC pain medication as directed.
Do root canals make you sick?
There are quite a few myths about root canals, including that they can lead to illness. This stems from research that was conducted back in the 1920s. However, it was poorly designed. Not only that, but the original findings were disproven, and, as a result, there isn’t any scientific evidence today that supports the claim that root canals can make you sick.
That’s why it’s so important to bring any questions you have about root canals to our emergency dentist! That way, they can provide answers, ease concerns, and dispel myths, helping you feel more confident moving forward with the dental care that you need in the process.
How can I make root canal treatment more affordable?
Fortunately, most dental insurance providers cover between 50% and 80% of essential restorative treatments, including root canals. If you don’t have dental insurance, then ask us about CareCredit! This trusted third-party financier offers convenient payment plans (and some have little-to-no interest attached). As a result, you don’t have to pay for the entire cost in one lump sum. Instead, you can break up the price into smaller, more manageable chunks that work for you.
Why do I need a root canal if my tooth doesn’t hurt?
Although patients often suspect that they need a root canal when they come to visit us, there are some cases when it comes as a complete surprise. The truth is that an excruciating toothache isn’t the only warning sign of an infection. During the exam, we also look for a pimple-like bump on the gums and dark discoloration on the enamel. If we find these or any other abnormal symptoms, we will bring them to your attention, discuss your treatment options, and share how we recommend proceeding.