(734) 996-0200Root Canal Therapy – Ann Arbor, MI
Stop Severe Toothache Pain
Are you experiencing severe dental pain? Does it hurt to eat, or do you feel a surge of discomfort whenever you have something hot or cold? If so, the nerve of your tooth may be damaged. It resides in the innermost layer of your tooth, known as the dental pulp. When the pulp has become infected or injured, the only way to get the relief you need and save your tooth is with root canal therapy in Ann Arbor, MI.
Reasons You Might Need a Root Canal
The dental pulp in your tooth can become damaged primarily in two ways. Either a cavity has been left alone for an extended period of time and the decay has worked its way to the pulp, or some kind of trauma has occurred to the tooth. Once the dental pulp has been affected, this will often bring about noticeable discomfort, along with sensitivity to certain temperatures. Here are some of the main signs that you might need a root canal:
- Red, swollen, or sensitive gums near a tooth
- Pain when biting down on a particular tooth
- A bump on the gums right below a tooth
- Swelling along the face and cheek
These symptoms indicate that the dental pulp has become infected or injured, and the most direct way to treat it is with a root canal. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.
What to Expect When Getting a Root Canal
Over the years, root canals have garnered a dubious reputation, and unfortunately, it is quite misleading. Thanks to local anesthesia, you will be completely numbed to any physical discomfort. The pain associated with a root canal often stems from the initial infection or injury itself, not the actual procedure! Root canals are intended to relieve your pain, not cause it. However, Dr. Olsen is aware that this treatment can make many people nervous, so he will always meet with you beforehand so he can answer any of your questions. Only when you are comfortable and ready will he proceed.
When you come in to get a root canal treatment in Ann Arbor, it will involve 3 basic steps:
- An access hole will be created in your tooth so that the dental pulp can be reached
- This pulp will be removed and the inside of your tooth will be sanitized to help prevent reinfection
- The hole will then be filled in order to reinforce the tooth’s structure
Most root canals can be completed in one visit, typically lasting anywhere between 30-90 minutes. Depending on how much of your tooth needed to be removed, you might need to come back so it can be fully restored with a crown. Your tooth may feel slightly sensitive in the week after a root canal, but it will be much better than when you first walked into our dental office, trust us!
Root Canal Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s face it, root canals have a bad reputation; however, you might be surprised to learn many of the rumors you’ve heard aren’t true. Nonetheless, it’s normal to have several concerns about root canal therapy in Ann Arbor, but there’s no need to worry. Here are the answers to a few of the most common questions we hear to put your anxieties at ease.
Why should I have a root canal instead of having my tooth extracted?
Extracting a painful or infected tooth may seem like the simple solution because it eliminates the problem at its source. Although this is helpful short-term, it causes lasting consequences for your dental health and your quality of life.
Every tooth is essential to your oral health and functions. When even one is missing, your self-esteem will suffer while you also experience complications below the surface of your gums. You’ll slowly lose density in your jawbone because it isn’t being stimulated by your root. This will make your teeth shift out of alignment, increasing your risk of several issues, like cavities, gum disease, and additional tooth loss. You’ll need to replace the tooth with a prosthetic to save your smile, which can be costly.
You can avoid the complications of tooth loss by treating the tooth with a root canal. Dr. Olsen will restore its health and structure, so it can last for a lifetime with the right care.
Is a root canal painful?
You’ve probably heard several horror stories about root canals, but they are often exaggerated and occurred before several new innovations in dentistry. Now, the treatment isn’t any worse than a traditional filling because of new dental instruments, methods, and techniques. To further ensure your comfort, Dr. Olsen will use an anesthetic to numb the area, so you won’t feel anything.
How long can I wait to get a root canal?
No one has time in their day for a dental procedure, but you shouldn’t wait to have your root canal. If you delay getting the care you need, it could cost you your tooth. It’s best to have the treatment ASAP to prevent the damage from worsening to the point your tooth needs to be extracted.
How much does a root canal cost?
There isn’t a set cost for a root canal because the amount is determined by your individual treatment plan. We will provide you with an estimate during your initial consultation and discuss your payment options to keep it affordable.
Will my dental insurance pay for the procedure?
Although every policy differs, most dental insurances will cover a portion of the cost of the treatment until you reach your annual limit. We’ll work on your behalf with your insurance company to file the necessary claims and paperwork to maximize your benefits to lower the amount you need to pay out-of-pocket. Our dental office accepts several payment options to cover any remaining balance, like third-party financing with CareCredit.
If you have tooth pain in Ann Arbor, don’t wait. Contact our dental office today for an appointment.