Root Canal Guide and How to Find a Root Canal Professional in Ann Arbor, MI
Many dental patients are afraid of root canals because of misconceptions around how long the procedure will take and how much pain it will cause. Phrases like “I’d rather get a root canal,” have made patients believe that this procedure is particularly painful and time-intensive, but this simply isn’t the case. Root canals are actually a common dental procedure and are less troubling than you may have been led to believe, according to the American Association of Endodontists and the patients of DGY Dentistry.
If you’re worried about an upcoming root canal (or even avoiding the dentist out of fear!), read our root canal guide for everything you need to know about this process. You can also contact our root canal professionals in Ann Arbor for more information, including dental anxiety treatment options.
At DGY Dentistry, our patients often report how easy the root canal was! They are thrilled with the treatment they receive and the sharing of complete information so they are well prepared. From the slow and thoughtful administering of anesthesia to the execution of the therapy, the patient’s comfort is the number one concern.
What is a Root Canal?
All teeth have a thin, straw-like tube running up their centers containing sensitive, live tissue. If a tooth experiences decay or trauma, the delicate tissue can die or become painfully infected. During a root canal, the tooth is saved by entering the thin tube-like canal, cleaning out the problematic tissue, disinfecting the space, and sealing it so fluids and new bacteria won’t create another infection.
What is the Process of a Root Canal?
- A small opening is made in the tooth, allowing the excavation of the infection and any infected nerve tissue.
- The canal(s) are disinfected with an irrigation process.
- Once full debridement has occurred, the canals are dried and filled with gutta percha material to seal off the tooth.
When properly administered, the tooth can be preserved for a long time. The dentists at DGY Dentistry take pride in saving teeth through root canal therapy.
When Do You Need a Root Canal?
An infection in the root canal can compromise the tooth and create discomfort. According to Healthline, the symptoms of a root canal include:
- Persistent pain
- Sensitivity to heat and cold
- Tooth discoloration
- Swollen gums
- Pain when you eat or touch the tooth
- Chipped or cracked tooth
- A tooth that feels looser
The use of 3D technology can confirm the direction of the treatment necessary. Patients who have consistent preventative care and address treatment in a timely manner are less likely to be confronted with this emergency. DGY Dentistry’s team of root canal professionals will act quickly to help reduce your discomfort.
Root Canal Alternatives
In some situations, an alternative to a root canal may be possible. One of the most common is an extraction, which replaces the damaged tooth with a bridge, implant, or partial denture. However, the American Association of Endodontists notes that “replacing an extracted tooth with a bridge or implant requires more time in treatment and may result in further procedures to neighboring teeth and supporting tissue.”
With early detection and intervention, we can successfully save a tooth by root canal treatment. DGY Dentistry’s comprehensive treatment planning reduces emergencies for our patients because patients are well informed about what may be more urgent and what can be phased over time.
While we do not have a crystal ball to determine if a tooth will need a root canal, we make every effort to educate our patients about early intervention and not putting off treatment that seems expensive. Nothing is more expensive than adding on additional dental services that may have been avoidable.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
At DGY Dentistry, a root canal procedure usually takes only one appointment, which lasts approximately two hours. A more severe infection may require two appointments to treat successfully.
Our root canal professionals will let you know the level of infection and what you can expect during the root canal procedure(s) when discussing treatment.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost in Michigan?
Root canal fees are set based on the tooth, not the amount of work necessary to address it. It is a set fee for molars, bicuspids, and anterior teeth.
Often the procedure is completed in one session; however, more severe cases require a follow-up appointment, which is no additional charge for the appointment to complete the root canal. If additional restorative work needs to be done following the root canal, our team will discuss what the next steps are and give full disclosure of costs to avoid surprises for our patients.
Here at DGY Dentistry, we can obtain a pre-authorization estimate from the insurance company. Co-pays vary depending on coverage, but on average, you can expect about 50-80% coverage from your insurance provider for root canals.
Do Root Canals Hurt?
Many people believe that root canals are painful. However, the American Association of Endodontists notes that most patients report feeling comfortable during the procedure with the help of modern techniques and anesthetics. Recent advancements in root canal therapy result in more precise and less irritating techniques, as well as fewer post-treatment problems.
At DGY Dentistry, we take patient comfort seriously by using a variety of anesthetic techniques including nitrous oxide and oral sedation. Many patients have come to us because of anesthesia problems in the past and have been successfully treated.
With early intervention and proper anesthesia our patients are free of pain during the procedures. In more severe cases, we walk slowly to success for our patient, meaning treating the tooth in smaller appointments. This gives them relief and allows the infection to subside by giving the abscess a way to escape.
Root Canal Recovery
You may experience some sensitivity after your root canal, which should fade after a few days. Follow your dentist’s instructions for managing your recovery and any discomfort.
Patients at our Ann Arbor dental office are often happy to report that they are surprised by the relief they have after a root canal. With proper and thoughtful care during the root canal, and providing medication to offset any discomfort and irritation, a root canal can be looked upon in a very positive light. You are saving your natural tooth, which is always our goal at DGY Dentistry.
Signs of Infection After Root Canal
Signs of an infected root canal include swollen tissue, pus discharge, and mild to extreme pain. If you notice any signs of infection after your root canal, make sure to contact your dentist.
Root Canal Professionals Near You
DGY Dentistry Ann Arbor uses high-tech root canal techniques for the most precise treatment possible. These current techniques are more precise and far less irritating with fewer post-treatment problems. We take patient comfort seriously by using a variety of anesthetic techniques including nitrous oxide and oral sedation. Many patients have come to us because of anesthesia problems in the past and have been successfully treated.
Our Root Canal Professionals
Dr. Quell and Dr. Yilmaz have an aptitude for endodontics (root canal treatment) and are currently undergoing additional advanced training in endodontics in order to keep up with the latest technology, literature, and techniques so they can save patients’ natural teeth whenever possible.
Additionally, Dr. Yilmaz has completed intensive training at the University of Detroit-Mercy and St. John Providence Hospital, as well as ongoing in-house training with her mentors. She keeps up with the very latest in dental science and has passion for the full range of dental procedures, including root canals.
Dr. Donaldson has built his career on continuous education and is highly trained and experienced in root canal treatment and oral sedation dentistry. He received high academic and clinical honors from dental school and has served on the board for a large dental continuing education society.
Root Canal Professionals in Ann Arbor
Our dental office is conveniently located at 3100 E. Eisenhower Parkway in Ann Arbor with easy access to surrounding Washtenaw County and the larger Southeast Michigan area. Contact us today to learn more about our Ann Arbor root canal professionals.
