Root Canal & Endodontics in Gainesville

There are many reasons why decay gets to this point. In some cases, undetected and untreated rot has spread. In other cases, trauma from dental procedures has reached the tooth's pulp. Adult teeth can still thrive after pulp is removed. If you suspect that you have infected pulp, it's time to have your tooth examined by root canal specialists in Gainesville as soon as possible!

How Will a Dentist Decide If I Need a Root Canal?

When you meet with a Gainesville root canal specialist at Patrick B. Toms, DMD, our team will use X-rays, an examination, and your description of pain and discomfort to make a diagnosis. While alternative treatments may be possible, you should be prepared to hear that you need a root canal if you're experiencing extreme pain. Other common signs that a root canal is needed include:

• Pain that occurs when biting
• Sudden pain or sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages
• Lingering hot and cold sensitivity
• Swollen, tender gums
• Noticeable facial swelling around the mouth
• Tooth discoloration

These symptoms should never be ignored! Call our office to make an appointment with a dentist specializing in root canals in Gainesville today!

Are Root Canals Performed by Endodontists or Root Canal Dentists?

Both! The truth is that both types of professionals are capable of performing root canals. Most people simply use general dentists for root canals because this is a more convenient and affordable option. However, you may be told that you need to see an endodontist if you have a complicated case. Endodontists also typically handle retreatments that are needed after root canals fail. Endodontists complete two additional years of training after graduating from dental school that equips them to handle complex surgical root canals.

What Will Happen During My Root Canal?

While hearing that you need a root canal can feel like a source of stress, the reality is that the modern root canal is a streamlined, gentle procedure that will not cause you pain. Once your Gainesville root canal dentist gets started, the procedure should last for about an hour. Here's a close look at what you can expect:

• Your tooth will be numbed to prevent any pain during the root canal.
• Once your dentist has confirmed with you that the tooth area is fully numbed, they will isolate the tooth using a rubber sheet that keeps bacteria and saliva out of your canals.
• Your dentist will create a small access cavity to reach the tooth's canals. These canals will then be cleaned, smoothed, and shaped to allow the dentist to irrigate them to remove debris.
• The irrigated canals will be filled and sealed.

While your dentist will place a temporary filling to close up your access cavity, you will need to return to the office once your custom crown is ready. Your crown will look, perform, and feel just like your natural tooth. It's recommended that you avoid chewing hard foods with the tooth that was just treated until the crown is placed. While there's no official recovery period following a root canal, you may find that taking over-the-counter pain relievers helps to relieve any minor discomfort or inflammation you experience at the treatment site.

What's the Average Cost of a Root Canal?

With so many different factors going into the cost of a root canal, it's not possible for our office to provide you with a general estimate. Once one of our root canal experts in Gainesville performs an examination, we'll be able to provide you with a custom quote based on the location and state of the infected tooth. We can tell you that front teeth are generally less expensive to treat than molars simply because teeth located at the front of the mouth have fewer roots. If you have dental insurance, we'll be sure to review your coverage to help you get as much of your root canal covered as possible.

Pain in your mouth is telling you something important! Contact our office right away to make an appointment with a root canal dentist in Gainesville.

What Kind of Root Canal Will I Need?

Most people with decayed or damaged tooth pulp simply need a standard root canal. However, you may need a procedure called an apicoectomy to treat an infected tooth if you've already undergone what turned out to be a failed root canal. This surgery is helpful for uncovering decay within the tooth canals that was not visible on your previous X-rays. If a child is being treated, a pediatric pulpotomy will be used to remove rot without removing all of the tooth pulp. Keeping the tooth pulp ensures that the baby tooth can stay in place until it's time for it to naturally fall out.

Are Root Canals Painful?

The "painful" root canal is one of the biggest myths keeping people from getting the dental care they need! Don't put off seeing a dentist for a root canal out of fear. Many people are unaware that root canal procedures of today are simple and painless! Our office uses state-of-the-art local anesthetics to allow you to receive treatment without discomfort. If a persistent toothache has you concerned, it's time to see a dentist in Gainesville to discuss the possibility of needing a root canal.

How Do I Find a Dentist for Root Canal Near Me?

Getting a tooth treated is easier than ever! Simply call Patrick B. Toms, DMD to find a dentist specializing in root canals near you in Gainesville. Our team is here to provide you with the compassionate, knowledgeable care you deserve in a judgment-free setting.