Root Canal Therapy


The Procedure

 Dr. Hashimoto or Dr. Stover will give more than enough local anesthesia around the tooth to ensure you are comfortable. Treatment may be completed in one or more visits depending on the extent of the infection and complexity of the tooth's root canal system. After the tooth is numb, the endodontist places a small protective sheet called a “dental dam” over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure. Your endodontist will then make an opening in the crown of the tooth. Very small instruments are used to clean the pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals and to shape the space for filling. After the tooth is cleaned and shaped, the endodontist will the root canals with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the root canals.A temporary filling will be placed to close the opening and removed by your dentist before the tooth is restored.

After the final visit with your endodontist, you must return to your dentist to have a crown or other restoration placed on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function.












How does endodontic treatment save the tooth?

 Root canal or endodontic treatment—treatment done to the inside of the tooth—is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, faulty crowns, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, trauma to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

During root canal or endodontic treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth.

Endodontic treatment helps you maintain your natural smile, continue eating the foods you love and limits the need for ongoing dental work. With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last a lifetime.


 How Much Will It Cost?


Your cost can vary depending on which tooth is affected, the complexity of the tooth affected, and your insurance coverage.  In general, root canal therapy is less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth (implant or bridge).




              To provide you with a better understanding of endodontic retreatment, we have provided the                                                                  following multimedia presentation.